My Sketchiest Hitchhiking Story (Plus tips for hitchhiking while backpacking)

[@jintsuuriki3915]

I generally ask people before I get in the car if it's okay if I text their number plate home for security reasons. People always understand and are actually glad that I seem to care about safety. If they would decline, I'd politely say I'll wait for another ride.

[@vgastinel]

jintsuuriki what a great idea! I’ll pass to my daughter on the PCT.

[@sammyso4940]

If I was the driver, I would be wary of someone asking to photograph my license plate. It screams that someone is going to use this photo unethically to accuse me of something absurd. I would tell them to find another ride. I would then probably never even bother to stop for another hitchhiker.

[@MissTrixie29]

@@sammyso4940 Lol, how are they going to use a license plate unethically? They're not taking your picture and it's not like the hitcher couldn't (or wasn't already) going to send the text message, but by stating it, they're letting the driver know that there's already a trail to him if he decides to do something. I think it's a great idea. If someone is uncomfortable with me taking a picture of their car then what are they planning on doing to me that they don't want a picture of the license plate.

[@richardf.dossii3900]

I picked up this backpacker once..OMG,it was so fun..drove them like 300miles to a job site.

[@ronaldstarkey4336]

@@sammyso4940 me too... no ride Clyde... lol

[@CaptWesStarwind]

I picked up a hitchhiker once and after a few minutes they looked at me and asked "How do you know I'm not a serial killer?" I replied "the chances of two serial killers being in the same car are astronomical". Great tips though and glad everything turned out safe for you.

[@sammyso4940]

I'll have to remember this one!

[@HikerJohn316]

@Off Grid Unhinged What was the name of the movie?

[@ronaldstarkey4336]

Good one... lol

[@kerrimcvinney6081]

😂😂😂😂😂😂😂

[@BeneyGesserit]

Hilarious

[@ChristopherMarshburn]

Additional tip from former prosecutor: if you are getting into someone’s back seat (especially if you are solo) check and make sure the child safety locks are not engaged ( they are usually on the inside of the doors). If they are engaged you won’t be able to get out from the inside.

[@spartywarriors]

You should have blown your trusty harmonica. That thing is lethal. 😂

[@joetexas1546]

Hah that was funny!

[@joelprange3498]

It did repel a mountain lion.

[@HomemadeWanderlust]

😂😂😂😂😂

[@thescrambler6684]

😂😂

[@joannb6330]

She'll sound like a weak critter, lol😂🤣

[@scottchelski9632]

I can understand why his wife left him

[@HomemadeWanderlust]

Scott Chelski Right?!

[@gregparrott]

Emma Cote Given he had already killed a person as well as a horse, sticking around a psycho in order to 'make him regret it' could be a fatal mistake. Also as much as retribution seems just, why nurture bad vibes? You'd be better off reporting the psycho to authorities and getting him out of your life.

[@russianbotfarm3036]

@@gregparrott And his 'jokes'! > hostile, scary stuff > Just kidding! _shudder_

[@daymaker5460]

His wife is buried in back of the cabin.

[@daymaker5460]

@Emma Cote Emma perhaps the horse was mean,nasty and vicious like Tom and needed killing likeTom.

[@spookymulder945]

Coolest hitchhiking story that happened to me: I got picked up by some punk girl in humboldt CA hella years ago. And while she was driving she pulls out a bag from the glove box FULL of magic mushrooms and told me to take three handfuls. I threw them in my backpack and as we drove up to my destination (Arcata),she asked if she wanted to get a beer with me at her local haunt and I agreed. I bought the first round and just talked about hardcore music and just life in general. She was hella cool. Never saw her again...

[@melindaadams6520]

Man, that was like the beginning of a spooky movie. I'm glad it turned out ok.

[@CarolynsRVLife]

Wow, what a story! I loved how you thought on your feet and took pics and recordings and I noticed the video in the truck capturing landmarks. I am so glad you weren't alone (either of you) and that it had a good ending! I love the neck knife idea. I think I'd prefer to keep it hidden --- the element of surprise can be powerful. And yes, more stories! I loved it! Excellent video and tips. Thank you.

[@davidniven686]

Thanks for the story. I learned 3 things, 1 drink all the beer an old rodeo cowboy offers me. 2 don't let him hit me on the nose. 3 don't let him ride my horse.

[@luell2u]

lol Too funny, David. Bet you learned more than that...or maybe not.

[@davidniven686]

@@luell2u : you are probably right, i am a slow learner.

[@bearanoia673]

😁

[@thistleLJ]

Good funny..... poor horse.

[@sketroux4580]

But he can hit me in the chest, that's fine

[@horizontaal]

I always like a good story, so thanks. It reminds me of a girl that would work for a travel magazine. She wanted to make a solo motorcycle trip from Holland to Australia - over land - and write articles about it. In Italy her motorcycle broke down. An Italian stopped, offered to help her and took her to his house. Well, jadajadajada it was the love of her life, after three days of traveling she stopped her world trip, never wrote an article. I think they married.

[@kkfoto]

lol

[@alfredharrison597]

or she's buried out in a desert somewhere.

[@Mtnsunshine]

Oh yes! I would love more personal stories from the trail! That would be wonderful. 👍

[@1faithful2Him]

Please post your stories here on YT!!!

[@russianbotfarm3036]

Probably saving them for her book. Wonder when it'll be out?

[@TheChuckoluck]

Safety in numbers, always hitch with somebody else. Never be alone with' a man in his vehicle.

[@abstract1126]

I'm a native Portlander, a mountain goer and a section hiker of the PCT! I was training for and planing a thru hike when I got pregnant (almost exactly a year before my departure date). I was heart broken about my trip, but glad about my baby! Since then, every season I get on Instagram and fallow thru hikers as they journey up the west coast. I'm always happy to send support if they need to get off the trail for some reason or they get sick. I am always happy to meet them somewhere, as they get into the PNW section, to offer rides or bring replacement gear. I'm always willing to bring fresh or cold foods and cold beverages. I figure if I cant thru hike myself, the least I can do is be an Angle and create a little trail magic for someone else! If someone has been following your hike on social media, you've had some good conversations with them and they seam lagit to you, dont hesitate to let them help you! Many of us just want to hear your stories and fell like in some small way we made your trip a little easier.

[@davidmurphy4676]

All is not lost Abbijean, bring your child in 12 years I am planning the PCT next year ( ‘22) hopefully covid and wild fire free. I will be 73 years old and refusing to take my grandkids ! 1st refusal ever. I’m the worst in the world . yippee!

[@georgecostanza2377]

As someone who researches interpersonal violence at the intersections of animal cruelty and a hiker... you described quite a bit of power, control, domination, animal cruelty, anti-social behaviour, and aggression - all red flags. You handled this like a pro. Triggering this person likely would have brought out an adverse reaction. Glad you are safe and are using this as a learning experience.

[@MissTree22]

You are a fantastic story teller...very engaging..in fact, you got me hooked...I now want Chapter Two of the book TOMFOOLERY...WRITE IT

[@HomemadeWanderlust]

Quirky Girl Thank you!!

[@nickmeriweather587]

As much as we'd like to hear it, hopefully she never gains another story to tell! Lol

[@LAVA-el5yt]

OMG! Part of me is screaming, "how much more creepy does he have to be before you get the heck out of there!" Another part of me is thoroughly enjoying the story of how much more creepy he gets as he keeps talking. For all of us, not just women, please remember that safety is more important than being nice. I know. I grew up in the south, too. Everyone should read Gavin de Becker's book the Gift of Fear. Love your channel and hearing about your adventures!!

[@TaoJones101]

One of Dixie's most informative videos, especially in that it addresses an aspect of thru-hiking that some people may give little thought to beforehand. Thanks, Dixie!

[@therealjeff-0459]

besides the bears, mountain lions, and Tom....im struggling with my fear of doing the PCT

[@bryanmathis224]

You'll be fine. I hope your doing it or getting ready to do it but now. Best of luck. Don't let fear stop you from doing thing. Words I wish I lived by.

[@Ryz414]

Just don't hitchhike

[@kimkremer8915]

My two primary concerns are water crossings & hitching.

[@stalkmoe]

As an older guy in some ways it’s easier, but dang glad you weren’t alone in this case Dixie!

[@candicemitchell2963]

Wow, scary story. I agree with all of your advice, but, I do not feel obligated to have to justify my reason as to why I changed my mind about getting in their vehicle, if I get that vibe that they are dangerous. If they are truly dangerous people- I'm telling you, they will not care what your excuse is, they'll continue to follow and harass you. Don't waste your time in conversation with anyone you feel may harm you. Just get out of there.

[@noyopacific]

There is no obligation to justify declining to accept a ride. Dixie's advice about making up a plausible excuse however, was very practical. It's probably either going to be someone who was generously offering to help or maybe it is some sort of a predator. If it is a predator, the last thing I'd want to do is let them know that I'm afraid of them. Fear is a trigger for predators. If it was a a sincere offer of help, maybe from someone with underdeveloped social skills, it is inexcusable to insult them if there is a gentler way to excuse yourself. I used to hitch rides when I was in Alaska 40 years ago. When I returned from Alaska, I picked up hitchhikers for many years. I stopped picking up single women because it seemed like more risk than I wanted to take. Eventually I stopped picking hitchhikers up all together because so few could hold an intelligent conversation and I prefer my own company over the company of dull people.

[@candicemitchell2963]

@@noyopacific With all due respect, as a woman who has been followed and grabbed twice by men on two separate occasions, I have learned that predators use conversation as a means to pull you in. Hikers- always trust your gut and avoid small talk if you feel you are in danger. Your ability to listen to your gut and trust your judgment becomes stronger the longer you are out on trail. Nature has a beautiful way of returning us home to ourselves in many ways, including this one. You do not owe anyone a reason if you have changed your mind, to keep yourself from safe from danger.

[@noyopacific]

@@candicemitchell2963, It is hard to reason with someone who even wants to debate your points of agreement. You seem to essentially be a rather disagreeable person with limited social skills. If I were like you, I would try to avoid contact with other people, especially anyone I didn't already know.

[@jenniferlawrence1372]

You are not obligated but it is also true that an unstable person could have their switch flipped by the perceived rejection and then you’re in an isolated area with a lunatic who’s mad at you. It’d be different if they were in town. It’s a tightrope to walk. Dixie handled it in a way that it didn’t escalate but you can’t really know how it’s going to work out beforehand.

[@rowanwalker9927]

*pounds fists on table* STORIES! STORIES! STORIES! (unless of course you are saving some to write a book, in which case, I will absolutely wait and buy the book 👍🏻)

[@robertfleming387]

Tell me some of yours, I'll share some of mine...lol. Not may scary ones, most people are decent, or I am just not an eady target.....😂

[@Faster_Fantastic_MrFox]

As a younger guy hiking Sobo the AT this past fall, I had trouble hitching into Luray from Throton gap, I pulled a, "Innocent Tactic", in which I started shivering while appearing to slowly walk/limp the 9 miles into town with the thumb up, within 5 minutes a van pulled up with two small children in it that demanded their mom to stop because they thought I was homeless, needless to say it worked and I was grateful!

[@rhondamills2919]

Maybe I shouldn’t watch this one!!

[@HomemadeWanderlust]

Maybe not, mom. Especially because you’re still at work 😂😂😂 Also, you’ll be hitching with me this summer 😬

[@rbailey294]

@@HomemadeWanderlust Now that's pretty funny! Those Moms!!!

[@djg5950]

@@HomemadeWanderlust That's when you'll meet a guy who always wanted a mother daughter duo. Both of you need to carry bear spray or pepper spray, just in case. Make sure you ask them to pull over for a minute before you spray them, though.

[@johndavidson6867]

Mom I think what Jessica experienced was scary but nothing did happen that was bad. I wonder how many hikers catch rides that don't even think about anything being even close to what they experienced. My wish would be for all hikers when they need that ride it is a joyful and enriching endeavor that adds a level of pleasure to their trip.

[@noneya6334]

@@HomemadeWanderlust , dang... sounds like you are lucky you made to mile 700.. wow

[@ykasken]

I pretend I am talking on the phone with my boyfriend and I say, "Yes baby, I am riding with someone with the same type of car as you. The (description of the car) and he/she gave picked me by (where they pick me up) and he/she is driving me to (where I am going). I am so thank you for them. Ok, baby called you when I get there. This way they know, someone is waiting for me. I also have a knife in my pocket and I put my backpack between me and them.

[@RegrettablyLongwinded]

I do this any time I see someone sketchy on the trail. Or at least talk about how I'm expected at x time at y place so they think I'd be missed quickly.

[@carolemayfield9619]

Yep done that! Worked really well!

[@janicechiaretto7082]

Do crazy people really care?? Sorry, too many horror stories out there to make hitching look like anything other than wacko-roulette.

[@CrossoverGenius]

@@janicechiaretto7082 supposedly, it does make a difference to opportunists. If people know you are connected to someone else, it makes you less of a target because there is greater risk of them being caught. They really are doing that risk-reward math in their heads to see if it is worth it to try something.

[@taniathorkelson413]

Wow!! Freaky story indeed! I've had my share of sketchy hitches as well. I used to Hitch up and down the West coast in the early 80's. I had my first Hitch at 14 yrs old (which I do not recommend but the way!!) From Seattle to San Francisco. And then back to Seattle much later. I'm not going to get into all the stuff that happened to me, just trust and know I've had my share of really scary experiences, but I also have had some wonderful ones as well. I've met some really great people. And I've met and regretted having met and come across some messed up ones. I usually hitched but myself (once again, I do not recommend that either, especially as a young teen aged girl.. And it's always good to travel with someone). My other big mistakes that I had made back then was that I didn't tell anyone where I was going and when.. Bad idea. I got lucky, and lived thru these experiences. But it also could've gone really badly for me as well. Safe travels to you and everyone else!! One love!!❤️

[@dalejohnson9565]

Great story and great advice! I live in Hiawassee GA near the AT(actually recognized the stretch of road near Dick's Creek Gap and Top of Georgia hostel in this video with the two smiling hitchers) and have picked up lots of hikers going to/from town. I've always had great interaction with those hikers and they're always super appreciative for the ride. Never a bad idea to take pics of licenses and vehicles and send those to a loved one or friend just in case. I do it all the time with suspicious looking characters... just a couple days ago at the Unicoi Gap AT trailhead while out for a day hike. Better safe than sorry! Love your videos and your southern accent! Keep em coming?

[@socalgal714]

1974 a friend & i were hitchhiking from Anaheim CA out to Cottonwood Cove on the Colorado river near Vegas. We got a few miles out of town then stuck on the Orange Show offramp for hours. And hours. And hours! After midnight a man in a Cadillac stopped. He was wasted drunk & said we could drive ourselves wherever we wanted to go. Huh? Wha? OK! Woke him up 3 hours later, said thanks, and off we went!

[@dat2ra]

Back in the '70's hitching was an ordinary means of getting around. I have hitched thousands of miles and given nearly the same in rides in my VW vans. VW's were always good to see while hitching because not only were you going to get a ride, but an adventure too. One of my students asked me what I thought the biggest difference between then and now was. After thinking a bit, I told him that back then, we weren't afraid of one another.

[@jonasgrumby4393]

Yep. I'm 59 and have hitchiked from Arkansas to New Jersey in a day. Hitchhiked all the time in Jersey to get around. Lot's of us did it.

[@user-qm1gr3eh2e]

I highly recommend the book The Gift of Fear.

[@lyseanthony7986]

That book is awesome.!

[@curlygirl3870]

Two words come to mind: Edmond Kemper I grew up in the 70’s, I don’t think I could hitch even if my life depended on it 😬

[@paisleydreamzzz]

i hitched to tennessee from wisconsin in 1977. 1st half was great. 2nd half - lucky i'm alive! never again.

[@alfredharrison597]

same. theres also Dahmer, son of sam, JWG just to name a few

[@janicechiaretto7082]

So did I. Is it any safer now with cell phones? Well maybe, but don't wish to test that. Especially if I were still a pretty young woman. nonononno.

[@mrsmelons5553]

Dahmer had a pretty specific demographic targeted...

[@kellyann3531]

@@paisleydreamzzz Tell us more!

[@Horsecampr1]

As a horse lover, this guy would have mortified me on more than just being a creep....he's an animal abuser as well (assuming of course that the story is true...which it might not be ~ weirdo may have just said it to see what your reaction was). At any rate, Thank You for telling this! I do think most folks are decent...but there's always that chance, and folks should be aware. The fear of being harmed on a hitch is only 2nd to being struck by lightning for me in terms of wanting to do a thru hike. I also worry about Animal attacks, but far less than the other two! 😲

[@janicechiaretto7082]

He's lyin'. That's what he wished he would've done. Drunks rarely are men of action. And no one dies of a torn nose either. All fantasy land for poor ole Tom.

[@RobFarrell17]

The neck knife is a great idea for many reasons/situations. Thanks!

[@noyopacific]

Okay Rob, you can carry the knife, I'll take the pepper spray. 👍

[@Patriot-1]

Oh yeah, I’ve had experiences like that.. on a motorcycle trip, desolate area in Michigan’s U.P. (Big Two hearted river area) No gas , no Choice but to set up camp with only a psycho (found out after set up and it was dark) in the campground for uh.. company ?.... this was before cell phones... (Michigan’s wilderness roads)

[@LoveTheRhythm]

Hey, I'm a bushwalking guide, regular hiker, sometimes hitchhiker. In addition to Dixie's great tips, I've had success hitching by: - Waving around some chocolate bars while my thumb is out - Appearing presentable and having had a birdbath prior: I feel this is all that should have been said regarding differentiating backpackers from the chronically homeless. What is the difference, really, between us and them, except that we *choose* to wander? Having a tidy backpack and not holding plastic shopping bags or reeking like hell are things that *anybody* can do to hitch better, not just us the advantaged. - Dancing sometimes helps keep morale high when the hitching is slow, and your fun carefree vibes may appeal to drivers However I have to emphasise that above all else I feel safe hitchhiking alone or with others for two crucial reasons: 1) I'm an 80kg/5'1"/177cm/27yo male and I'm aware that more people are intimidated by me than I am by them, but even more importantly: 2) I'm comfortable defending myself under pressure - and, honestly, I think every hiker should be, no matter how small. I developed the confidence to go almost anywhere after about 1 year of consistent training, and now I'm at 2.5 years. I train in the sport of submission grappling (via Brazilian Jiujitsu) and it's one of the best things I've ever tried in my life. It engendered improvements in my diet, lifestyle, fitness, dextrosity, balance, and mental health. I'm stronger. I'm happier. And if anybody tries to attack me in their car or try to physically control me in any way, thanks to all the sparring I've done I'm now comfortable under duress and could likely choke out or otherwise injure my aggressor in quick order - and I'm not even that good for how long I've been training, I'm like, middle-of-the-field. Nevertheless I don't need to feel afraid unless somebody pulls a gun, and at that point only diplomacy or good luck and skill in a tussle will save you. Anyway, I *strongly* recommend that those intending to spend time in isolated places, alone or with strangers (hiking, backpacking overseas, hitchhiking, whatever) go attend free trials at your local combat sports gyms and see if you get hooked on anything - BJJ, MMA, Muay Thai, wrestling, boxing, judo, etc. Gyms which do lots of real, live sparring rounds. Avoid places that teach martial arts techniques without making you test yourself against resisting opponents every session. These are usually karate, aikido, taekwondo, kung fu, wing chun, and so on. Just my 2 cents.

[@SinMore]

dang the desert has some kooky "Toms". I'm stressed about this because I have to hike alone. Check for child locks before you get into the back seat.

[@labmjnj]

The child locks are in the door frame, the door has to be open to set them. It's just a little switch/knob in the side of the door. You can look for it on the back door of your car to see where it is. @@criticalmoment3859

[@marthagregory3852]

I never would have thought of the child locks

[@janicechiaretto7082]

DO NOT HITCHIKE ALONE!!!. LIFE IS SHORT ENOUGH.

[@jackt6112]

Excellent tip!

[@MichaelDelaware]

Scary story. I used to hitch when I grew up in Phoenix all the time. I learned from a friend who taught me that if you are a guy, it is better to stand and look tired, and make sure they can see your face rather than be walking with your thumb out. I never got a ride when I was in motion trying to hitch. They only stopped when I was standing still. It's a useful skill to learn if you ever get stranded, but your advice is very correct on safety. It's always better to be with someone else.

[@johndavidson6867]

Dixie thank you for this..I know that I probably have more time to spend watching, but I feel that if you have taken the time to record and upload a video, I will spend the time to watch it all. I have viewed many of yours and enjoyed them all. This video was very informative and thought prevoking, I personally am very leery of picking up a single person, even one as beautiful as you, it can be almost as dangerous for the driver as the person being picked up. As 70 year old I can remember hitching across Canada several times, and had no problems. Things have changed lots over the years and not all for the good. I will continue to look forward to your vids and hope for many more. Luv you and all you do for us. I subscribed during my first vid and sponsored at the end of it. Keep it going.

[@JeremiahStringer]

Loved the story! Yes! Story time with Dixie 🙌🏻 So glad you included the etiquette of hitching in your vid. Great stuff

[@kellirustin7944]

That area by Walker pass and Lake Elsinore is pretty sketchy anyway. Probably one place I’d definitely hitch with a partner! Glad you got through it.

[@ronaldstarkey4336]

You are correct... eastern Kern county is sketchy... lol

[@howardburleigh3568]

If you're talking about Lake Elsinore in Riverside County then yeah, I concur. That place is sketchy even if you aren't hitch hiking. Most of the bad news ends up being from there or involving a resident from there.

[@ApeMan]

I can't top that one! Wow - scary. I once was hitching up to Horseshoe Meadows and a lady in a pickup stopped to give me a ride. She had to move the loaded rifle off the passenger seat to make room. Then we turned off to an unmarked dirt road and drove in a mile so she could "check for deer". We eventually got to the trail head and I gave her 40 bucks since it's pretty out of the way. She said she was heading straight to the casino! She didn't tell me I had a purty mouth but I could tell she was thinking it.

[@dankappus7004]

Your polite response to the stranger inviting you into his house shows good raising in Alabama.

[@rickharris5756]

Love all your episodes. I agree with everything you said. My wife and I hitched from California to Michigan on a rock climbing adventure in the 90's. We were told by many rides, "they pick up couples mostly, knowing they are just trying to get somewhere". Met some awesome people. And the location you hitch from makes all the difference. Location location location. Hope to see you on the trail someday, Sincerely, Snow grandpa

[@stephaniew2545]

Holy cow! 🐮 What a story!!! As always, thanks for all the great content!

[@flysubcompact]

"Sketchy Tom" was sure enough sketchy. He just assumed you might be easy, thus the ride. The other stuff (about the killing a guy, riding horse to death, prison, etc.) was to intimidate your male pard. Smart to not go in his house. I think you are the same lady who made a video about not being armed (firearm). IF I were in a position to ask strangers for rides, I'd damn sure be armed, political correctness/extra weight or not.

[@alfredharrison597]

Political correctness only goes so far to the point where your life literally hangs in the balance and then its game on. Trust me, when people find their very life is threatened they start to learn who they really are and how things really are.

[@flysubcompact]

@@alfredharrison597 I guess I'm in that group of "A former liberal who was mugged". Discovered, naively, at 20, that a young white man can make the mistake of "driving while white" in a black neighborhood. The woods are inherently much safer, but bad folks can be happened upon anywhere...in the projects or the great outdoors.

[@frank-to7lu]

Sending pictures of the truck, it's tags and the guy was smart. If he became threatening, making him aware that a record existed would likely have prevented things getting worse. Well done.

[@moonlightmelodiesasmr3766]

Holy crap! So glad you made it safely out of that situation!

[@100_zwe]

Yes on the stories! Anything anytime anywhere. Thanks!

[@outoworkdreamer]

Glad that situation turned out safe for y’all. Thanks for sharing that.

[@SpacialMeg]

Great video Dixie! I feel so informed now, glad you weren’t alone and got to town safely, eventually. So sketchy though

[@lrose711]

Great tips, thankyou for sharing Dixie! So happy you were actually ok!!

[@wendalwarren6131]

Ha! That’s a great story. In the late 60s and early 70s as a teenager I hitched many times. And though there were a few troubling situations, nothing like what you went through. Thankfully you are ok, and you have a great story out of it. My biggest concerns were freezing to death and being picked up by the cops. And many times I wished for the later because of the former.

[@Mare924]

I am not a thru hiker nor do I plan to be but I thoroughly enjoy your videos!

[@abc-wv4in]

I understand the need, but hitchhiking is an especially risky behavior, even more so for a woman.

[@gatblau1]

The last time I drove through Walker Pass there were vultures hanging out on the side of the road. It’s an interesting drive.

[@hood_jam2562]

Is it me or does Toms story sound a lot like why Nicolas Cage went to prison in the movie Con-Air😂😂😂

[@modivator-u8l]

Would love to hear more of your stories. Stay Safe and God Bless You!!!

[@screamingXskittles]

You’re such a good storyteller!

[@Pendulum_Swings]

It's Tom here, I have been trying to reach you with no response, Please call me, love you. Tom

[@DollarBlazing]

I'm not even half way through this and am squirming in my work chair with my heart pounding... am I sweating? Im sweating.

[@sarahgreen3663]

My heart's pounding and brain is flying in circles.. v scary story!! lol..

[@DollarBlazing]

Finished the video. You're amazing and I am so glad you are ok. So many red flags, sometimes you gotta f*ck politeness. Way to #SSDGM !

[@jenniferlawrence1372]

It’s ok. She makes it out alive.

[@StephenJelinek]

In 2013 while on the AT 2 young ladies accepted a ride back home from a truck driver. I took a picture of the driver and the DOT info on the drivers door, and made certain he saw me capturing this information.

[@marcjohnson4385]

Used to hitchhike back in the day most good some crazy not many but some were way out there DIXIE If any harm came to you there would a lot of us looking for "Tom" and WRITE THAT BOOK

[@kenkrausse3624]

Damn straight

[@theosphilusthistler712]

Bit of a Wolf Creek vibe from "Tom". That sounds like predatory behaviour, like a shark swimming up and bumping the prey to gauge the risk in attacking - scary talk - "just kidding", repeat. Also a lot of the horror stories I've heard start with U-turns. If the car was headed the other way, then turns round just to pick you up what is their motivation? And just remember, some drivers are going to be offering you a lift because they want to keep you safe. Those drivers will be happy for you to openly transmit their details.

[@susiehilsman1360]

Oh. My. Gosh. Bless you and Dibs, and bless your mom who had to endure that from afar! So glad you made it thru OK. Yes, yes, yes to more stories!

[@elizabethgallaher1919]

Dixie's Mom ..you are very brave. I dont think I could do this for my girls.

[@SoulDevoured]

I'd absolutely love to hear more of your stories Dixie.

[@elisheva3523]

I'm from a country (isreal) where hitchhiking is super super normal and the way most people get around. I Always ask the driver where they are going 1st. Don't tell them where your going until they tell you where they are going. That way 1 you have another excuse if the situation doesn't feel right and 2 they can't lie saying they're going where your going. I realize that doesn't always work on all roads but it's a really good rule.

[@MrAlexDavid]

Hi Elisheva, what you describing is only common to some regions. In these regions, 1: people are super nice and welcoming. 2: if they have a certain license plate, most likely it's safe. 3: you know someone that knows someone that knows him lol. The states are way different in that sense. FYI I'm from the same country.

[@sammyso4940]

As the driver I would insist you tell me where you are going first. It is more likely that someone who hitchhikes has bad intentions than someone who drives down the road "supposedly looking for hitchhikers."

[@elisheva3523]

@@sammyso4940 I think that makes sense for other countries. In isreal it's really only a threat for the person hitching. And thing's like this are what we use to make sure there not terrorists disguised. It seems like in other countries it's different.

[@elisheva3523]

@@MrAlexDavid regions of isreal.you mean? Ya people don't tremp in cities but aside from that most other places. I think your right that it's different in other countries. Sad it's that way, I don't know what I would do if I could get tremp.

[@MrAlexDavid]

Elisheva In Yehuda & Shomron and the Arava maybe (haven’t been there for a while) it’s very common. Within cities it’s less of a thing as you said.

[@chriscon8463]

Wow...I don’t think I’d ever hitchhike again after an experience like that. Way to keep your wits about you!

[@KatrinaOutside]

Definitely loved the story at the beginning! Favorite part. Would love to hear more stories from the trail like this.

[@jefferysullivan8923]

There is often valuable information in stories. Keep them coming, Dixie!

[@skyetaylor1579]

I've been known to grab a hitcher or two in my day, as well as stop to render aide to a stranded motorist, but I won't do it when I have my daughter with me.

[@StevenWalker]

I pick up people on the PCT all the time. I wonder how many have stories of how terrible I am.

[@dennyegstad1477]

Great story. Reminds me of the hitch with the drunk hillbillies in Bill Bryson's "Walk in the Woods" Be sure to include this in your book!

[@tammystringer4044]

Like these real stories much better than “gear reviews”. How about the funniest things that happen on trail or compile interviews with some of the noted trail angels or what were the best surprises to find on trail or in a town?

[@chrisbonner8077]

Having lived near there I can confirm, there are sketchy people around Kern Valley!

[@tommynikon2283]

Dammit, Life Lesson learned: DO NOT hitchhike w/ crazies. But how do you deal w/ them?; by ACTING crazier. Now they're scared of you. BTW....my name is Tom, so I take it personally.

[@mattlockhart7451]

Yes please more stories

[@TheLeoojedap]

A friend and I came out of a TH into a road and we knew we couldn’t make it to the next camping spot. A cop car drove by and kept going. 10 min later he came back and actually gave us a ride back to our next spot. It was weird and very tight to be on the back of the cop car with full backpacks.

[@fosterwayne6684]

That story sounds like every county music song I've ever heard.

[@DebCampos]

Valuable information!!! Thank you Dixie 😊😊😊👍👍👍

[@diggingupthepast4660]

That was definitely a sketchy story but at least you had your wits about you and had already solved your own kidnapping! A situation like that could easily put someone in fight or flight mode.

[@donald-parker]

Wow! That's the stuff nightmares are made of. Glad you made it without incident.

[@RickStoneTravels]

Very informative! Thanks Dix

[@johnhumphries4632]

Wow, I think old Tom had some issues. Glad things worked out and y’all were safe. You just never know what’s going on with some folks. Thanks Dixie, thanks for sharing!

[@Liberty_Tree]

Tom sounds like a guy who was always a little weird, but his divorce has wrecked his world. Sometimes a divorce can send a borderline personality right over the edge.

[@jeffreyjones1721]

I appreciate that you're the glass half full and see the best in people type of person..... but.... he did kill a guy he was jealous of before the divorce.... and he killed his wife's horse that she didn't want to sell before the divorce. (The one she was loyal to, kind of like him while he was in prison for 4 years for killing a guy). I think he may have been over the edge, but it happened before the divorce news.

[@hikingwithaaron]

I vote yes for more stories. I bet you have a million of them.

[@donmartin9567]

I need to make a video of my hitching adventures from the 1960s. One was right out of Cheech & Chong, the car stopped, I ran to get in and when I opened the rear door smoke just poured out but, it was the 60s and they did share and I was only a teenager :). But the one that got to me was the time I totalled a car, in the middle of a cold Canadian Winter, in a relatively remote space and with it being very late there was no transportation, I had to hitch. I finally got a ride and was really thankful. However, the guy started talking about highway robbery, pulling over people, masquerading as undercover cops and taking their valuables. I figure the guy is just full of B.S. but he starts to describe how to do this in more detail, holly crap, this guy has thought this through. He says that he'd approach the car and I could guard him with the shotgun in the backseat - sure enough there is a shotgun in the back seat. I just tell him that I've gotta get home. Fortunately, nothing came of this and he dropped me where I needed to go. Never found out whether he was just screwing with me or how serious he was but to a teenage kid, he sure sounded serious!

[@jr618]

Oh and in regards to having a female with you, it's true. Women are less threatening than men, but it sill boils down to your presentation. It's human nature. If you look like a threatening individual, no one is stopping for you, male or female. Look cleaned up, smile, and be nice. If you're dressed up in all camo, unshaven, big knife dangling around your waist, don't get upset if no one stops for you. Don't be a fool either, if you're getting into someone's vehicle snap a pic of their vehicle and their plate and send it to your contacts. If the person picking you up is offended, do not get in! Any normal person would be fine with it. Tell your contact where you got picked up and the intended destination. Be safe ya'all!

[@robertforester7938]

Great story this kinda thing could really catch on

[@mog-gyveroneill2500]

If the person who picks you up is just regular people, they shouldn't mind if you want to take a picture of their car, registration, and even of them, to send to your go to person. In fact, if they were a mum or dad type, they would maybe even suggest you actually did that so your parents/go to person didn't worry.

[@TheWeekendHiker]

Wow, what a crazy story. Glad you both made it out safe. Thanks for the tips.

[@SDMacMan]

Share more! You're a great story teller.

[@noyopacific]

She definitely has a real gift for telling her stories ! Remember the time she walked up on a mountain lion? Whew !

[@DrLove-vk7yx]

Outstanding info !! Love the stories. PEACE

[@JxT1957]

i had the weirdest hitchhiking encounter back in 1977, i was on my way to work and going up the interstate on ramp when i felt something crawling up my leg from my work boot and all the way up on my thigh. so i quickly crushed it with my hand through my pants and pulled over to the side of the ramp and pulled down my pants and it was a big palmetto bug that i had crushed and i got a napkin out of my glove box and began wiping my leg off. there was a guy and a girl that was hitchhiking at the bottom of the ramp that started running towards my car thinking i pulled over to give them a ride. when they got to my car door and saw me with my pants down wiping my leg off with a napkin they took off running back down the ramp. they left so fast they wouldnt give me a chance to explain what happened.

[@iriolexisbierle6697]

I would love to see a "stories from the trail" series!

[@terryedmond4492]

A cooler of beer, bad brakes, pulling a horse trailer downhill - what could go wrong? Crack the window just an inch to draft out.

[@TwylaWorld]

I LOVE "Story time" with Dixie! MORE STORIES!!!

[@vickhines6302]

All good information. My method for declining a ride if the driver gives off a bad vibe is to ask, “are you Marty (or Ralph or Prestly or some other rare-ish name)? Then when he says no, “thanks for stopping, but I called for a shuttle and he expects me to be here. Thanks, again.” Works for me.

[@OminousRooster]

I probably wouldn’t pickup a hitchhiker if I was alone, unless my wife is with me. I try to remember when I drive somewhere near a trail there may be hikers needing a ride. CDT or AZT.

[@trailheart1863]

Wow ! 😮 Crazy story ! Thanks for sharing and for the useful tips like the seatbelt thing.

[@paulsmart5199]

Awesome... keep those footsteps in the dirt

[@johnchristopherrobert1839]

If you were in fear for your life why didn’t you start walking to town from his house instead of getting back into the truck.