January 9.5 to 11 th AT winter through hike.

[@will5184]

Thanks for the kind words everyone. I wish I had the time to reply and thank you all individually.

[@ElizabethPearch]

I’m so glad you called her back and stuck with the trail. Never quit when it’s bad. I’m counting on others to remind me of this when I’m having a bad time on the trail.

[@flagsontheat5269]

You’re doing great - tough conditions! I’m heading out April 2022, nice and warm, I hope! All the best, following along from the UK

[@MadCowOutdoors]

So glad that new bag is working out for you! Everything seems to be looking up, keep it going will!

[@TheBlackCamper]

Thanks for getting out there and paving the way for 2021. Im starting February 17th

[@ElizabethPearch]

Oh that’s it. I couldn’t remember when you start. I start March 1.

[@hazysnapshot]

Glad you decided to stick it out. It proves there's some truth in that trail saying, "never quit on a bad day."

[@butchbinion1560]

Never quit on a bad day. Stay the corse

[@greenfeetoutdoors2779]

Great video, thanks for all the effort to edit and share, really appreciate it. Great testiment to what great sleep and recovery can do for your outlook. Looking forward to seeing your next video, great job! Happy trails.

[@susankaempfer8427]

You can also melt snow and filter it if you don’t want to go get water... Absolutely beautiful trees. I can’t decide if I hope the snow is still there or not when I get there!

[@billiebluesheepie2907]

It’s only worth it if you build a fire. You get a centimetre of water to each pot full of snow, and it takes loads of fuel, I think it’s quicker for me to walk half a mile for water than the time it takes melting it! (Catching rainfall off a shelter roof is definitely worth it if there’s a piece of string or twig to direct it to your pot or bottle though!)

[@davewalters9843]

You will get snow

[@andrewburchett4165]

I'm glad to see things got better after a bumpy start. You've got this.

[@willswalkingwest7267]

I just found your channel and subscribed. DON"T GIVE UP!!!! Awesome bear footage. Thank you for not freaking out and making a bunch of silly noises. Nature is awesome. Enjoy it! Going to follow you to the end, keep one foot in front of the other, everything will fall into place. And hey, think of the bragging rights!!!!

[@markcummings6856]

Very nice 👍. Thanks for sharing.

[@susankaempfer8427]

Found Nemo...🤦🏻‍♀️ your kids must be so proud. 😆 Next level dad jokes.

[@ASTHECROWFLIESHIKING]

Nice video and channel. I love the Duplex. I have had mine for a year. Great tent. Awesome snow out there. New follower here. All the best, Crow✌️

[@chuckcrookshanks847]

Thanks for sharing your AT journey. Glad to hear that you found a way to sleep warm at night and continue on with your hike. Happy Trails.

[@brockq1972]

Glad you found something that worked for you for your sleep system. Good for you sticking it out

[@cheri7828]

If you are using a footprint, you can lay that down in the shelter under your pad to protect your pad and reduce drafts from under the floor. The last shelter you slept in had pretty big spaces between the floor boards which may have also made it colder.

[@will5184]

I used my poncho

[@spiritualtlc]

Loving the trail and your perspective. Thank you for doing this. Beautiful

[@williambakos7274]

DUDE! You CANNOT give up! Glad you upgraded your bag. My wife and I will be starting in a few weeks and we loved your gear videos.

[@rosemarymcleod4074]

So glad your new sleeping bag is keeping you warm. Some beautiful views. God bless and keep on stepping.

[@will5184]

Thanks

[@donnaburns2944]

So glad to see you stuck it out!! Glad your new bag is keeping you warm!! Views were beautiful! I can’t believe you saw a bear!! Stay warm, safe and hike on!!! 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻

[@brianwofford3831]

I am enjoying your videos. Wow, great views in this video. I have hiked through there at that time of year. I haven't hiked that stretch in years.

[@knarkate]

make sure you're asking for the thruhiker rate every time you call hotels!

[@barondavis5692]

So glad you’re sharing your journey with us. Great perspective on AT in the winter. I’m learning so much from following you. Continued luck and decent weather.

[@vivoutdoors]

Good Sleep = Happy Hiker! Glad you're still on trail. Onward!

[@artillerybugz6721]

Hey . I'll be starting on February 14th . My 3ed Thur hike of the AT , I use Hoka Mafate speed Gor-tex shoes with Sealskin socks and Injinji liner socks , . Feet stay mostly dry and I know the trail in Ga can trim into a stream in spots with rain/ snow .anyway good luck !! And "Embrace the suck" . " No rain, no pain , no Maine !!!!!

[@bobkat5145]

I was going to suggest the Seal Skin w/p socks as well. Worked well for me with the liners same liners. However, the Seal Skin gloves that were suppose to be w/p were a comlpete fail.

[@lampworkergal]

You’re doing a great job. Glad your keeping it real and not sugar coating it. I look forward to watching the rest of your journey.

[@moviejunkie189]

I love your humor, your attitude, and your accent! So excited to follow your journey here from Ohio! Getting caught up this morning on my day off. You’ve got this, buddy! Happy trails!

[@bobkat5145]

Keep it up Will! Appreciate the time and effort to make the vlogs. Looking forward to your next video.

[@kenttheboomer721]

Good on you, buddy. I'm going to section the remainder of the GA AT this late winter. You're giving me more inspiration. A couple more weeks and other thru hikers will be keeping you company as well. Cheers.

[@sammyelliott5554]

You are one tuff dude! Keep going. By the end you will have thousands of followers and convinced others to get out and hike.

[@TheForester71]

I’m enjoying your videos so far. Excited to get to see the winter action! Keep moving north. You got this.

[@ultimatefitnessnutrition8655]

Glad to see the video! Wow...the bear! Thanks for taking all of us along on your journey!

[@lennyhikes2781]

You are amazing! I’m glad that you’re hiking!

[@stephenlewin9834]

So glad you found a sleeping bag that is working for you. Glad you're sticking it out after a tough start. You're providing very unique and beautiful views of the trail that I've never really seen before. Best of luck to you.

[@anothernewtonadventure1806]

Awesome bear video. I’m glad the new sleeping bag is working. Happy and safe hiking.

[@scjohnk]

I remember eating lunch at Lowgap shelter. I can't imaging doing that hike in the ice and snow. We got some in April, but man, I think I'd be slipping and sliding everywhere.

[@wandawilloughby6052]

I save Subway bags and put over my socks and it really helps keep my socks dry. Have you considered an umbrella. Great video!

[@RonKris]

Congrats man...you've adapted and overcame... you will have more to 'overcome' later. You can do it.

[@andrewryder1319]

White tunnel indeed!! It's beautiful!

[@ginnycarr3969]

I love that you discuss real issues like pooping, freezing and crazy dreams. I like that you showed us how to dry out your tent and shoes. Impressive. Did you have a problem with mice?

[@will5184]

Nope

[@bigmannlittlehammock257]

I applaud your Jan start! I’m concerned about my March 27 start, so your a beast for being out in Early Jan. Hang tough!

[@mattray9533]

I’m looking forward to following your journey! Don’t give up! Wish I could be out there with you man!

[@pungo147]

Great footage of the bear climbing the tree as well as the tough conditions you're facing. You're the pathfinder for those of us that are starting later on in February, March and April! Enjoy the cool temps - summer heat will be here before you know it. And remember - slow and easy wins the race!

[@ChrisfromFL]

Following since your a Floridaian and I'll be heading up to the Smokies in March for a few days. Especially interested in how the poncho works out since I may be taking one with me. Stay warm and safe.

[@randysmith6493]

neat vid. Glad you set your tent up correct, so many don’t . like your curiosity with the BushBuddy, never seen that. maybe have to Teepee the air around your foot ware for drying. I was going to recommend Neo Xtherm mattress but I see you got one. I slept on concrete at 18° and was pleased with it’s performance. Hang in there. Very pretty views on top of that one mountain.

[@5StackHikes]

Happy trails. Left u a greeting at the Wayah Bald shelter today. Low there tonight of maybe 15 and breezy. 3" snow on the ground. "5 stack"

[@spannymakronkeep8673]

Gorgeous!

[@daniellebryan3496]

One of the guys in Florida Bushcraft shared your video, and now I'm here watching your journey! My hubby and I hiked a very short stretch of the AT by Blood Mountain (we went down to Tesnahatee (spell check) Gap and Neil's Gap). It was beautiful, I wish you all the best!!!

[@lazarohernandez5904]

Nice to see things getting better!!! climbing out of the mental valley of despair :). Will be curious on the specs for the Nemo you bought as it seems its worth the investment.

[@will5184]

I forget the weight but it's heavy. This was one of those situations where I just didn't care about weight.

[@aridill]

So cool! Love seeing your journey! Hope to start next month! Good luck to you!

[@trishfoster9102]

I am glad to hear you found a bag to keep you warm. Hike on.

[@mowglie315]

In winter you can walk wherever way you want bc there is white blazes everywhere

[@will5184]

Haha

[@Warren_Farms]

keep diggin brother. Looking forward to watching your journey

[@paulscott7637]

Had to cancel my 2021 thru owing to covid so really enjoying your real time videos. That new bag is going to make a massive difference. Happy hiking

[@zinniaflower1770]

Love your video. Thank you for sharing

[@alwayssomething4590]

Glad you stuck with it. That new bag made a real difference.

[@jimmyrick6628]

I'm going for my 3rd attempt Feb 13th 2021 Keep goin brother!!!

[@frolege1]

“Finding Nemo” ... dad jokes are the best

[@joelperez8842]

Glad to see you are having fun, sucks that you are doing it by yourself, however you can see that have all of us rooting for you! I will have a case of beer waiting for you when you make it home in May/June!

[@10001694]

Sorry Will but I have have to confess. I’m sitting in my 5th wheel with the heat on watching your videos. I might have to turn the heat up some; you’re making me cold watching. Be safe by yourself. Is anyone joining you sometime along the way for at least part of the trail?

[@thepaytonsvideos]

Never saw a bear out in the winter. I always just wash n dry my darn tough socks together on regular settings. Never seems to hurt them. Good luck and great video.

[@kathyt7344]

Just found your channel - Great clip of the bear! 🐻 Good Luck and looking forward to following along! 👍🏻😀

[@rmpruitt228]

I'm glad you are figuring out what works for you and that you are keeping on. In freezing camp: water bottle (with heated water if I have the fuel), and socks go into my sleeping bag. Boots go under the head of my sleeping bag as part pillow. Keeps everything from being frozen in the AM. Several different ways to cope, I am sure.

[@basketsresale]

enjoying the vids!

[@Randee04]

May the force be with you!!!

[@mowglie315]

Hmu when you get to Roanoke VA area for some trail magic

[@trakyboy5128]

Wow, a winter thru hiker dude !!!! That takes a large set 🤣😅 But really when you know what the trail is like ... Going in winter is crazy like a fox !!!! Let's look at it... No to little spider webs to greet ur face. No snakes, TICKS ... Although mud IS the AT !!!! Ya can't get around that one 😂. condensation freezes on tint so you don't have to worry about that dripping on your bag 😲 ... Yep lots of things if you just sit down and really think it through. Plus when will gets to the other end it'll be summertime by then and hopefully have some great views and a lot easier passage through PA and the rest of the way up to katahdin !!! And like will said snow makes great toilet paper so you're always clean and tidy 😃🤣😅😂😱!!!!! Lol. Power on Will, my best wishes to you !!!! ☮️ And keep on rocking the free world ☺️

[@jaynefought1268]

Woohoo! Way to hang in there. You're doing great. -Action & Adventure

[@Oceanwheel40]

I was very glad to see you push through the issues with your bag and get moving. In 2018 I had the same issues with my sleeping bag in The Smokies, however, my stubborness and pride really got in the way and I was unwilling to listen not only to my own voice, but other hikers and it caused my hike to go sideways, I was my own worst enemy -- so I was very glad to see you push through there is alot to learn watching your journey. Keep pushing North, get up the trail and enjoy your journey.

[@kennethclapp9713]

Heat you up a bottle of water and throw it in the bottom of your bag too, helped me at 7 degrees and 9 degrees a few weeks back near Fontana

[@BobPritchard]

Thru hiked AT in 2018 with a Feb start date. Re Showerpass socks, at the end of the day turn them inside out and sleep with them in your bag. All that matters is that the inside gets dry. Don't worry about the moisture on the outside. Washed mine only once a month or less because I always had liner socks inside. Was a great add in cold, wet weather. Don't wear them if it's dry. Good luck on your hike.

[@skinrat81374]

Good job!! You're out there doin it! God bless

[@susankaempfer8427]

You got to see a bear?! That’s amazing! Happy hiking!

[@Oursimplelife907]

So beautiful. I love winter hiking. It’s nice seeing the trail in a different light/season.

[@TheHikingHobbit]

Glad you decided to stay on the trail 👣

[@davidson_oldbull_sectionhiker]

So pleased to hear that you got a great nights sleep. Wow bear sighting so much for hibernation. Take Care

[@notquiteultralight1701]

Great views!! Just curious what tinder you used to get the bush buddy going. That’s a real world scenario for sure! Thanks! I know you’ll be back out there! You know!, people usually start this thing sometime around st pats day😁👍🏼. Take care sir!!

[@will5184]

Feather sticks worked best followed by birch bark

[@thebeginningofsomethingels418]

Beautiful day! Keep hiking!

[@serm3378]

Hey Will, it looks like you're doing okay out there, take your time and be safe!

[@reneeh2050]

Glad you got a new bag. Being warm at night makes all the difference. Stay safe. Be well!

[@craiglambert9515]

Awesome keep up the effort.

[@WalkingofftheCrazy]

Fresh air makes the dreams vivid!

[@jektrek]

Really glad you stuck it out. Hope that sleeping bag solves the sleep issue. I have placed a water bottle in plastic bad and kept in sleeping bag with me. Like you do with water filter. That way I had water in the morning.. keep on trucking!!!

[@davewalters9843]

Thanks for sharing Will

[@richardross7219]

A woobie can help a lot in many situations when you're cold. Put warm water in a water bottle and take it to bed with you. Glad that you feel better. When the trail is wet, put bread bags over your socks. Amazing to see the bear. Good Luck, Rick

[@moralcompass8457]

Cant imagine how hard it is finding white blazes

[@NordikSmeelyCooter]

Glad your feeling better and getting some good rest, cool bear sighting !!doing great!! enjoyed the video , thanks

[@jewelciappio]

I wonder if a bear was what broke the branch or if it was the weight of the snow? I guess we will never know but it’s cool anyway. Nice bear.

[@cpbritney2591]

I have just started watching your videos and enjoying them! Thanks for taking the time to share your experience. I am curious after hearing about your dream if you use Melatonin to help sleep. I told my sister that I was going to use it for camping sleep & she told me how it gives some people bad dreams. Lol, not sure if i want to use it now or not.

[@will5184]

Nope, I sleep all natural.

[@mikepowers8607]

I was surprised that you saw a bear this early in the year. Definitely gotta hang the food bag or use the bear boxes!

[@JonathanLovelace]

Keep it up! It’s all gonna be worth it!!!

[@dennispixton8809]

I’m just curious what brand and degree quilt did you start with and also what type pad are you using? Also good for you for sticking it out when you felt like giving up. Also have to say I don’t think very many start their thru hike in beginning of January.... hope your able to endure and hang in there !

[@will5184]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/q6rRh6lnqq5sgqc

[@justinmickle2081]

Loving the videos. Appreciate the poo references in the first one and this one, keepin' it real! Have fun.

[@collegedad8656]

You got this, pace yourself starting out and give yourself time at the end of the day to check all your gear and get your campsite set up. Just think, you're seeing some of the first views for 2021 on the AT! Hike on👍

[@johnhogan5342]

Saw a bear...... that is a sign of great luck!!!!! Nah, I just made that up but it's always cool to see one. I didn't see my first bear on the AT until just after GSMNP.

[@frolege1]

Way to tough it out brother.

[@lisastapleton8215]

Hoping all is well.

[@loctrice]

Glad to see you kept on. Also glad you got bear footage!

[@wes1633]

Will - I get cold just watching your videos. So I have to ask, why such an early start, knowing the 1st 2 or 3 months will be cold???

[@will5184]

Winter is my favorite season for hiking

[@aaronfuentes5919]

Cameras don't like cold weather. Great Vids

[@paulawebb700]

lol..you r doing great ..keep on keepin on...