The Long Way Home: A Pacific Crest Trail story

"The Long Way Home" is not just a documentary about hiking; it's a visual and emotional exploration of the human connection to the wilderness, the challenges faced in the pursuit of dreams, and the profound impact of the natural world on the human soul. Through stunning cinematography and an intimate portrayal of one man's epic journey, the film inspires viewers to contemplate their own paths and discover the untapped reservoirs of strength within.
#pacificcresttrail #pct2023 #thetrek #thruhiking #thruhike #hiking #adventure #sierranevada #backpacking #camping #intothewild #wild

[@povdad]

The fact that you finished AND filmed it the way you did is freaking amaze balls. This is Netflix level filming and you deserve at least a million followers

[@titouanleroux]

Thank you Sir! Hopefully Netflix sees this haha!

[@MetalTeamster]

These people are the toughest people on the planet

[@greenwood7734]

@@titouanleroux 100 mil followers. Much better than mr beast. I hate him

[@Onelightoftheworld]

@@greenwood7734 💯 I agree with you.

[@jessicaaguo]

you truly captured the spirit of the class of 2023, especially for those of us who went through the Sierra in a continuous northbound direction. thank you for your work. I’m sure it was probably an extra few miles (at least) of walking back and forth (especially over snow or lava rocks…!) to get some of those shots. incredible cinematography and absolutely poetic narration - so impressive since it’s not even your native language. I cried from not even two minutes in and so many memories flooded back to me at seeing so many of the same landscapes and places on trail - even things as little as seeing a shot of the corner of the Mt. Shasta laundromat where I changed behind my hiking partners holding up a tarp as a curtain, or the bench at Belden where I waited for a shower token, and especially the signatures at Lions Den, where I spotted my own in your shot. I think it’s so incredible for all of us to have such specific memories on such a long trail - how much everything is seared into our memories, and how you were able to capture it. you have included so many little details that only a PCT hiker could recognize (I am thinking of the shot of a stack of Seiad Valley pancakes, or the view from the shuttle in Stehekin, or the Parking sign just after Crater Lake when the alternate rejoins the PCT). I am so impressed with your Sierra shots; those days were hard enough without having to also freeze fingers off to capture some of those pre-dawn moments or walk ahead for a good shot of the team in the dark. and so many river crossings on logs - what a reminder. you captured the exact shots of the moments where I remember first seeing San Jacinto and the Sierra too, which were incredibly emotional for me. the part after Glen Pass where you talk about postholing is where I was injured/evacuated due to a postholing accident. also - I met the Dutch guy you show here (Rob) talking about San Jacinto at the Paradise Valley Cafe! he was staying at Richard’s while I was healing there :) too bad we never met while you passed through Idyllwild, I don’t know where I overtook you later! I loved how you used shots again from earlier in the doc towards the end when describing how you reflected on your own memories, as if jogging the memory of your viewers as well. spectacular work. I’ll be watching this again and again, and sending it to every hiker and trail angel and all my friends. can’t wait to watch your CDT adventure & good luck! “I kept going…” iconic, from this first line. amazing. p.s. seeing Lotto in this makes me feel like I know a famous person! - Stitches, class of ‘23

[@ktrpillar]

Hi Stitches!!! 💖🐸- FROGMA

[@titouanleroux]

Jess, thank you for your beautiful and kind words. I am moved and happy that you spotted all these details and that they spoke to you in such a way. We've never met, but you have the reputation of being a warrior and after hearing stories about your experience in the Sierra, I understand why. I wish you all the best, and maybe see you on the trail one day!

[@jessicaaguo]

@katrinkah Hi Frogma :) @titouanleroux ❤ I just had to get through it. I’m thinking about trying to intercept Lookout towards the end of his CDT NOBO attempt as it’ll be his triple crown hike, so maybe I’ll catch you then!

[@STURDYvids]

MY group unfortunately did not do a continuous path north through the sierras - however, we went in there as the first groups in early May (16 strong, Abe (first one to make it through this year) and Mushroom, and our group "the lovely lovelies") - eventhough we only made it to Mammoth and I am kind of sour about not pushing through, looking back being the first ones trailblazing Glen Pass (May 12th), Mather Pass, Pinchot Pass and Bishop Pass, still fills me with some pride and I truly applaud everyone who did not say "fuck it" after weeks of freezing and checked off the entirety of the sierras! PS: And it's funny, it feels like Ghost had a stand-in with almost every Tramily lol. Last time we saw him was around Big Lake Youth Camp. Congratulations to all of you! Proud to be part of the Class of 23!

[@MetalTeamster]

Your post is one of the most awesome posts I have ever seen on KZbin. Wow. Gave me chills reading it…much respect to everyone in this vid

[@martinkopunec545]

I've seen dozens of PCT videos but this is a masterpiece. The cinematography, the music, the editing, perfect. On the last day on the PCT, I was moved like I was there too. Thank you

[@Kay_Lorraine]

This is absolutely the best PCT film I've ever watched!

[@MrNiedziel]

Try the one from Karel Sabbe. It's great as well 😊

[@Kay_Lorraine]

@@MrNiedziel Thank you for the recommendation. I just watched it, you are right! It was great!

[@DannyScheid]

Perhaps the most cinematic self-filmed thru hiking documentary ever

[@svenfokkema3440]

What an incredible gem of a hiking movie! This should be on Netflix.

[@KevinLarat]

Oh man, the cinematography and the storytelling are through the roof. I can't imagine what you had to go through to bring back these images.

[@XxSAresSxX]

the quality is insane, it is criminal that you only have 300 subscribers. Greatest appreciation. A work of art.

[@zachariahalbrecht7751]

Of all of the thru hiking videos that I consume, the visual quality of this one is head and shoulders above them. It is simply stunning. I didn’t think the beauty of the PCT could actually be captured, but you have been the most successful at trying. Pair that with an amazing story with great pacing and intrigue from the environmental obstacles and you have made a masterpiece.

[@ekwipunek]

How it's even possible that this video doesn't have at least 1million views yet? Come on world, open your eyes! Brother - that isn't an ordinary yt video - that's a world class masterpiece and a real feast for the senses. I stopped doing everything I was doing (and I'm at work, so you'll have to explain yourself to my clients) and was sitting with mouth wide open like a child! I need to work some, then I'll watch it again!

[@michaelsalzer4362]

Hilarious! I stopped everything as well. such quality here.

[@HuangXingQing]

The best I've ever seen. I begin on 1 March. I've been waiting for 15 yeas for the journey to begin. I've been waiting most of my life to imitate Peter Jenkins.

[@MetalTeamster]

I wish you the best. I am going to be positive and say you will make it!

[@davidjhuang]

This is amazing, thank you for sharing your journey. The cinematography and narration are exceptional. Simply beautiful.

[@ElinaOsborne]

Re-living this experience through your film was such a gift. It made me want to get out there again. Thank you for capturing and sharing this magic, Titouan.

[@titouanleroux]

It’s me who has to thank you Elina! First for giving it a watch and for your kind message, and secondly, for giving me the inspiration to capture my journey thanks to your series. I’m happy to hear my film allowed you to relive some memories and gave you the will to get out there again. Maybe see you on a trail some days to collab on a film!

[@user-td9ul4bw8i]

This is one of the best videos about the hike that I have seen in a kwhile. Well done. My thru hikes were in 2021 and 2022. I especially enjoyed the scenkes of the Sierra. In 22 it was considered a low snow year when I entered on May 4th. I have been fascinated by the determination and toughness of the hikers that had to deal with historic snow in that section. There were times on my hikes when the scenery brought tears. This is the only doc which has been able to make me do that agian.

[@Jan.harvey]

You are a beautiful storyteller and film maker. Stunning journey.

[@veroleroux8499]

Waouh waouh waouh ! Paps and I don't find others words to tell you how much we are proud of you Son ! With deeply and truly love ++++++

[@kathyellis2350]

Very nice presentation with a thoughtful voice. Congratulations. You saw and experience the wild part of the west coast and a side of the US that many do not see. Hiking in altitudes, snow, lost paths is a "bear"

[@danielpais5329]

WOW! This is soooo good! Congrats! What a video and what an achievement!

[@AldenWeebsta]

This is the best PCT film I've ever seen, I've never been able to finish any of them. Great job!!!

[@titouanleroux]

That means a ton, thank you!

[@astreet6611]

It is the best PCT video-hands down. I have watched it now 3 times. Incomparable--absolutely--at times breathtaking

[@josip.knez21]

“To prove that I can be the best version of myself when feeling at my worst…” So powerful! Amazing narration and filmography! Thank you for the movie. It is a great inspiration. All the best on your CDT adventure😉

[@titouanleroux]

Thank you Josip, your kind words mean a lot. I am glad my work could inspire you.

[@garybarr1045]

I'm 79 and have hiked different sections of the Pac Crest Trail over my life. You did a great job. Thank you for the reminders of many things from years ago in my earlier life. Very uplifting and humbling. Congratulations on succeeding in your quest. Beautiful.

[@JackSheahan2012]

An absolute triumphant of a thru-hike documentary. Bravo!!! Many thanks for creating it, and best of luck to you on the CDT. Be safe and stay strong. Jack NYC

[@lovetorontohockey]

It was so incredible to share the trail with you. Thank you for this film that perfectly encapsulates this incredible experience. Till we share the dirt path again! - Neopolitan

[@titouanleroux]

Thanks a lot! CDT next year??

[@ilivevibrantly]

Bravo! this brought back so many memories! i attempted a thru hike in 1998. it was the first el nino year. we got snowed on in the desert which led to hypothermia, saw wildflowers that hadn't bloomed in over 100 years, but they weren't letting anyone through the Sierra's due to conditions and snow pack. We flew to WA then came to Canada to flip flop. I had a fall that ended my hiking not too long after. Watching this was bittersweet indeed and so heartwarming. What I endured to save my life is what gets me through life when challenged. If I could do that and endure that, then I can face any challenge and know I can do hard things. Love the way this was filmed and presented. Thank you. And just gotta say wow things have sure changed gear wise and gadget wise since 1998! Cell phones weren't even a thing back then lol. the filming of this by the way is spectacular. so well done and next level quality. Blessings to you on your journey...

[@sophiecumming2313]

You got it spot on Yeehaw. I’m going to watch this so many times, the best of memories ❤️ - Twigs

[@Sheety33]

Best PCT Film❤ Love the ending - “I lived”. Fantastic music selection as well - loved the ending!

[@maxdamsell]

Utterly incredible. The cinematography, narration, music selection and pure natural beauty of the PCT really makes this one of the best outdoors videos I've watched on youtube! The whole thing felt like a warm hug. Makes me want to get out and try to do something like this. My longest hike so far has only been 2 weeks.

[@titouanleroux]

Only two words: DO IT! and thank you for your message, it means a lot!

[@michaelsalzer4362]

This is one of the best videos about the hike that I have seen in a while. Well done. My thru hikes were in 2021 and 2022. I especially enjoyed the scenes of the Sierra. In 22 it was considered a low snow year when I entered on May 4th. I have been fascinated by the determination and toughness of the hikers that had to deal with historic snow in that section. There were times on my hikes when the scenery brought tears. This is the only doc which has been able to make me do that agian.

[@quakingleaf]

Incredible work. I feel this really captured the beauty and experience of the PCT in 2023. Thank you- I really appreciated seeing this. Quaking Leaf

[@titouanleroux]

Thank you, that means a lot! Don't know if you remember, but we had met briefly right before Julian. You and Desert Tortoise (I think?) passed me by as I was cowboy camping! I didn't have the hat yet though.

[@chrisfraser7058]

Extraordinary... A gift to be able to "see" the hike through your eyes. Well Done....

[@sandramore7021]

WOW. Just. WOW. I just finished the 675 m hike all alone, from Lisbon, Portugal to Santiago de Compostela, Spain, but want/NEED to hike the PCT. Your documentary scares and inspires me. I'll be 60 in August 2024

[@BorneoAgent]

Absolutely incredible feat and filmmaking, man. Having just completed the Great Divide Mountain Bike Route (which largely follows the CDT) and attempting to film along the way for the first time, I have the utmost respect for thru hikers and am blown away by your journey, cinematography, and storytelling. Huge double accomplishment and a piece of art.

[@heatherbenson640]

Your storytelling and videography is truly incredible!!

[@kirstijuergens6356]

What an incredibly beautiful and moving video. Your narration and cinematography transports those of us who will never hike the PCT into the whole experience - mind, body and soul. Thank you!

[@titouanleroux]

Thank you Kirsti, this means a lot! I am forever grateful I met Andrew and can now call him a friend. He was a warrior during this hike and a great teammate.

[@BraeHunziker]

This is incredibly well done sir! Congrats on completing the huge endeavor and capturing it so wonderfully!

[@mandymartin5166]

This is a spectacular documentary absolutely fabulous everyone in the world should be able to view it xxxlove and respect to all concerned xx❤️❤️❤️

[@owbyoutdoors]

As a thru hiker who films, I completely understand the level of effort, skill and dedication gone towards making this film possible. Amazing. Thank you! Edited perfectly as well.

[@batistelekikiste]

Incroyable. La qualité du montage, le rythme, la narration, la colo. Un travail colossale. Bravo.

[@ropersix]

Beautiful and poetic, this is a very memorable PCT video. Bravo!

[@pierreetchebarne1843]

I'm SABA, a fellow french, finisher from the class of 2023 as well. Your documentary is absolutely beautiful and capture perfectly the essence of the trail. Thank you for this moment of nostalgia :)

[@kendraslagter]

The cinematography is incredible! I'm absolutely blown away. It was as though your brought us right along the PCT with you. Congratulations on this film and for completing your PCT adventure.

[@titouanleroux]

Thank you Kendra! To bring you along through my journey was one of my goals making this film, glad to see it worked out!

[@BarryTaylor1993]

Man oh man, Titouan. I'm only 11:30 in and I have to comment and applaud. The effort gone into this is insane. It's making my heart swell in fond memories of 2019. I hiked until South Lake Tahoe and then called it a day. This year I'll return and carry on. Your film is the perfect watch.

[@BarryTaylor1993]

Finished. Truly spectacular. Good luck on the CDT. Go live large!

[@titouanleroux]

Hey Barry, thanks a lot for your message, it means a ton! I wish you luck on finishing the PCT this year.

[@caseyw6950]

amazing... class of 2024. wish me luck :) "time to live"

[@wandering_butnotlost]

Thru hike documentaries are my favorite! So excited for this Update: that was absolutely beautiful and I'm sobbing

[@OneEyeHikes]

What a great video! And kudos to a tough 2023 Sierra thru! Your video brings back memories and inspires me.

[@ryanwaterbury7069]

Comments about the winter of 2023 here are understated - it was a once in a century level of snow that year, making it one of the toughest PCT summers in a long long time.

[@vinuraperera]

Loved every moment of this. You brought back all the memories I hold dear to my heart

[@avghiker]

Someone else said this, but I will repeat it. This is one of the best outdoor videos I've seen on KZbin, and HANDS DOWN is one of the best PCT videos I've ever seen. You captured the trail and journey perfectly. Thank you for the time and effort that went into sharing this.

[@OldMuleAdventures]

Fantastic story and cinematography! This is inspiring to watch to motivate those who want to get out and have an adventure.

[@dlizardddd]

This is awesome man. Not many other pct docs capture the challenges on the trail. I hope to be a part of the class of ‘26, so it was great to see the terrain in so much detail. Amazing cinematography as well. Thank you for sharing!

[@titouanleroux]

Thank you mate! I was eager to show a more realistic side of what a thru-hike can be, which is a physical and psychological challenge.

[@Ontheside_Xx]

Inspirational. Thank you for your dedication, creativity and for sharing.

[@BeerinBeautifulPlaces]

I’m only a minute in and I already know this is gonna be great!

[@florian.guillier]

Merci Titouan pour le partage de ton film, j’ai pris beaucoup de plaisir à le visionner. Mes félicitations pour l’accomplissement de ton aventure qui je suis sur, restera longtemps gravé dans tes souvenirs.

[@Onelesstraveledby]

Thank you for sharing such an excellent video!

[@DanielErnst]

This is pure art 🙏💙 I can only imagine how hard it must have been to capture yourself along the trail at some points. So well done 🙏 Love the storytelling and the spirit of this movie. Now I want to pack my backpack and leave for an adventure! 🙌 As I said earlier - I would love to have an insight in how you shot this, the challenges of filming something like this alone while hiking and so on. Maybe a little talk video 😊

[@aurelienmabon4089]

This is a masterpiece. On every aspects. What a journey. Thank you. Hope a new one is planned... Can't wait : )

[@dgeiling1997]

"Soon, it was time to go dance with the unknown." - Simply a masterpiece. Incredible documentary of the PCT.

[@ThatCanadianExplorer]

This should be on Netflix!

[@TheOutspired]

Only 3 minutes in I knew this would be one of the best PCT recaps ever. Amazing cinematagraphy my friend! May I ask what gear you used to capture such epic shots? Happy trails.

[@ktrpillar]

Thank you for this gift! Brought tears to my eyes remembering the trail. Sharing with loved ones who tried to imagine what it was like out there. You captured it exquisitely! Coincidentally I spent the night under the bridge at Scissors Crossing with Buddy Arrest. I thought he looked familiar! He didn't have a trail name then. Happy Trails! 💖🐸-FROGMA

[@titouanleroux]

I am very happy it could bring back memories for you. Thank you. I also met Buddy under the bridge at Scissors Crossing, but he was getting back on trail while I was getting into town. We met again afterwards, and he was a great hiking mate!

[@ktrpillar]

@@titouanleroux that's amazing! I wonder if we met briefly as well as I was still there when he was leaving.

[@haveIgotastoryforyou]

Stunning and beautiful Congratulations to all 2023 hikers ❤

[@BrycePerrett4082]

Fantastic!!! 👏👏👏

[@TheBrightestBeacon]

Absolutely beautiful documentary. I loved every moment. Thank you for this gift. With gratitude 🙏 💙

[@gooddoogs]

Amazing footage of such a challenging journey. Speedo

[@tysonkampbjj]

Dude, I am so relieved there were no problems crossing the raging streams in the Sierra in the dark, on a log, with ice on it. Can't thank you enough for the film.

[@dgaylor1]

Amazing. I didn’t think anyone would tackle Sierras with the massive snowfall. Really enjoyed your journey and impressions. ❤

[@ToddFromTexas]

Great Film Yeehaw congratulations on your hike

[@andrewbowman1837]

Great documentary, awesome shots and narration. Good luck with your triple crown! I'll stay tuned, would love to see the CDT and AT in the same format.

[@stanriner1831]

Excellent. Especially the end with the view of your feet as you approached the N. Terminus.

[@mmiller11]

Great cinematography and writing. Well done.

[@titouanleroux]

Thank you Sir!

[@Nicolas-mv1qz]

The shots are spectacular! What a cool way to tell the story. It's great that you've accomplished your dream. Thank you for sharing your film with the world!

[@ImageBySteve]

Such an inspirational film with great cinematography.

[@jhutson715]

Thanks for the epic video, I could feel the passion man. "There are no great men, only great challenges that ordinary men are forced by circumstances to meet"

[@titouanleroux]

That is a great saying. Thank you for the kind words!

[@MelMilo133]

Incredible journey and bravo to you and the class of 2023! Uplifting wonderful storytelling of courage, conviction, commitment and community. Inspired me to plan my own adventure in my own country ❤

[@titouanleroux]

Thank you for your message. It makes me happy to know my story could inspire you to go on your own adventure!

[@keithjones1]

Beautiful! Excellent work

[@iwonameaney9923]

beautiful

[@dbaktx]

Thanks for taking me along. I enjoyed your perspective and narration.

[@elizabethtipton4193]

I didn’t want this to end, I was captivated. You did an excellent job!

[@titouanleroux]

Thank you!

[@blandinemartinoli2974]

Tres beau. L’un des plus beau reportage PCT que j’ai eu l’occasion de regarder (et j’en ai vu beaucoup). Bravo et très inspirant !

[@titouanleroux]

Merci beaucoup!

[@user-rr7ge4ng6f]

Fantastic film Yeehaw, brought back plenty of great memories - Brolly (PCT '23)

[@happyfeetsdiary.858]

No way this video has only 5k likes ..this deserves so much more…it’s so underrated.. hands down the best cinematic video I have seen in a while 🥹🥹🔥🔥.. sir sending you lots of love and virtual hugs 🫂🫂..Thankyou for the hard work ❤️❤️✨

[@chrishogancamp6193]

Dude what a great video. It was the right balance of wilderness, people and feeling. The shots was breath taking and music always hit the right mood. I'm going to added it to my favourites list and watch in the future to motivate me on my future hike of the PCT. Thank you for sharing.

[@HikingwithGus]

Incredible video of your trip! Thanks for taking us along!

[@schmitzcj]

I enjoyed reading your blog,.. and I'm really glad you made this video, it was excellent!

[@kennysus6174]

I'm speechless! I came to know about the PCT back in 2020 or something and i looked up a few videos about the experiences of hikers. I was mesmerized by the landscape and the peace this whole "trail provides" . This movie gave me that nostalgic feeling i had back in 2020. This was so nicely produced, its very hard to believe this was all done without a professional filming crew. The music goes perfectly with the scenes and adds to the warmth of your calm voice. The way you narrated your whole experience was pretty engaging as well, i wish i was watching this in a big movie theatre to amplify my experience. Its crazy to imagine the amount of efforts that you must've put in to compile so much content in the best possible story! I wish you the best. Thank you for existing. Your work is a piece of art.

[@titouanleroux]

Thank you so much for giving it a watch and for your kind words. I’ve put a lot of passion and energy into this project, so it means a lot to me to know that I was able to give you this experience while watching it. Take care!

[@3pk3pktube]

Great movie! Great sounds & music in composition! And great texting! Thanks for this video! Great job! 👍👍👍

[@eleanormorrison4657]

This is incredible Tito! The best of times 💜 - Shortcut

[@SupermanJimbo]

Hey Shortcut! It's Bones. This was so good to see all your faces again. Happy Trails

[@eleanormorrison4657]

⁠@@SupermanJimbo hey Bones, good to hear from you! Hope you’re well 😊

[@NatyAlonso1212]

Realmente es inspirador, mágico. Emociona 🙌

[@juane.rosario8854]

Congratulations on your achievement. The production of the film was awesome. Thank you for sharing this amazing experience.

[@lenakanshyna]

Happy that I stumbled across your movie here! Such a great work, a delight to watch. Beautiful cinematography, so many breathtaking shots, makes me wanna hike the trail beside you. The storytelling is also so soothing and meditative. Enjoyed my time watching it so much 😊 Thank you! 🙏

[@osier769]

Beautiful video mate, absolutely loved it. It even got me to dig a little and find some clarity through introspection, for that, thank you. Been over a decade since I've gone _walk about,_ it's been long over due, cheers for the inspiration. 🦘

[@titouanleroux]

Cheers mate! Thank you for watching. I’m happy to hear this film helped you find some clarity, like this journey did for me.

[@sylvieschouteten912]

excellent, tout en poésie pour une aventure hors du commun, félicitations pour ce magnifique document

[@joshbarrett4438]

One of the best trail videos ever. So incredibly well done. Thanks for bringing me back!

[@REJECTTHEWORLD]

absolutely a cinematic masterpiece. beautiful work and story!

[@beardedfroghikes]

Congratulations on an EPIC adventure!! The quality of the filming, editing and artistic description of the dialogue were all captivating and simply excellent. Well done! You get a 5 out of 5 trekking pole sets.🎥

[@titouanleroux]

My goal all along was to get a 5 out of 5 trekking poles rating. My life is fulfilled now haha! Thank you!

[@ericulese3651]

well accomplished and well done

[@Monnnieee]

You’ve done such a brilliant job of capturing something that cannot be explained in words. Brought me to tears multiple times, as it brings back so many beautiful memories. I hope I can show this later to my kids. Keep sharing more stories, you’re really good at it. And hope to see you somewhere on trail. - Dip (class of 23)

[@ireneizkarina2708]

can't wait your next video❤️

[@JrmPst-21]

Masterclass. À regarder encore et encore.

[@SisterSherryDoingStuff]

Moving adventure - story well told, visually.