Top 10 tips for hiking 100 miles on the South Downs Way

[@DanielFelos]

walking from madison, wisconsin to sioux falls, south dakota and then on to grand forks, north dakota for the summer '23 :)

[@joshuac3576]

Thanks for the advice, i watched your video a few times before heading to the trail. I got back today, it was my first ever long distance hike and it didnt quite go to plan! I only had 4 days to attempt the trail, I walked 27 miles on the first day and felt ok until the last mile when I felt something on my foot. I took my shoes off and both of my feet were completely covered in blisters. Also the basic £15 tent I bought from gooutdoors leaked all night and I woke up with all of my equipment wet. I could barely walk any further so I decided to come home and live to fight another day! il wait until I have atleast 6 days to complete the walk. I got alot of inspiration from your videos, thankyou!!

[@abeurakadabeura]

My longest walk was 92 km (57 miles) in 22h and 35 min without sleeping. I had blisters all over my feet that one of my toe nail popped out. Had to go to the hospital to get it completely removed and treated lmao. I am planning on walking a 135 km (84 miles) in one go this year. I love walking

[@stinkysalmon328]

I'm 15 and just started long distance walking 😁 so far the furthest I've walked is 25km in one day!

[@BackpackerScience]

That's enough I think on a long trail start out with that and your fine you anyway speed up within 3 weeks 😊👍

[@sandijskristersjecis8556]

I was 11 and I walked 33km

[@hamwhacker]

Can’t believe you walked over 30 miles a day. Beast mode!!!

[@moles100e]

Been thinking about doing the South Downs way for a while now. It’s going to be my first proper hike. Glad I’ve found your channel

[@dongladstone2029]

Super informative!! Thank you!!

[@alistairg6770]

Good comments and tips and having done the same they are tried and tested.

[@jamesoutdoors.6450]

Thanks for this especially the water PDF, I am doing this next week so very helpful.

[@amz7284]

hiking in south downs for half a week this sunday and i couldnt be more thrilled

[@thetrailhunter4469]

Wahoo! Enjoy, it’s such a good trail.

[@sh0352]

Thanks for the vid pal 👍

[@chrisward7582]

Great video, running shoes it is! Heading out tomorrow to do it in two days :)

[@cristasullivan]

Amazing video, super helpful. Thanks! :D

[@shaunmasters7211]

Hey, thanks for the useful tips. I am about to take on the SDW and found a few of these tips particularly useful. Thank you.

[@thetrailhunter4469]

Ahh thanks Shaun! Glad you found it useful. Good luck on the SDW!!

[@lydiablunt3327]

Dude you're sick, this was super helpful thank you ✌️

[@michaelpain393]

Hi, great videos, loved this one as I'm starting the SDW this comming Tuesday... trained hard and excited .. fantastic and informative 👍

[@thetrailhunter4469]

Thanks Michael and good luck on your hike. Just rewatched after all this time and I’d defo bring a water filter as the taps aren’t as reliable as I thought back then. Plus might be worth looking at Hiiker app or Far Out app (previously guthook) better real time updates on tap status and trail conditions.

[@kayhardie8549]

Thanks Russell. Planning a hike with one friend in March. Not sure we will manage the whole route....dipping big toes and all that!

[@thetrailhunter4469]

Any time, Kay! Glad you found it useful. It’s an epic hike and I’m sure you’ll enjoy it!

[@claireemily1983]

The water tap tip is so useful. I never knew there were these along the route. I tend to do 20miles along the SDW at a time and haven’t pushed for further miles due to this. Will be getting a map 🗺

[@thetrailhunter4469]

Yeah so good isn’t it. Download an App called Guthook. The whole route including water points and POis is on there. 👍

[@claireemily1983]

@@thetrailhunter4469 Will do, thank you 🙏🏻

[@rickc6726]

Sound advice, many thanks. Planning to do some hiking and wild camping when I retire in June!

[@timwinter272]

Franklin Arms has re-opened - had a very nice lunch there today 👍

[@JamesBTravel]

Great video, Russell - really informative. Considering doing something similar (maybe shorter) later this year. Bit cold at the moment so might head out for a short day trip and go back when it’s a bit warmer and I can wild camp. Look forward to watching more of your videos. Thanks for sharing!

[@thetrailhunter4469]

Ahh thanks very much for watching and for the kind words, James. Glad you enjoyed the vid. Ahh nice, where abouts are you thinking? The SDW is one of my favourite trips. Any questions, gimme a shout. Russ

[@JamesBTravel]

The Trail Hunter Thanks Russ. Not started planning anything properly yet but thinking of heading down to the Eastbourne area and finding a day hike around there. Will let you know if I have any questions. Cheers!

[@thetrailhunter4469]

Awesome place to hike around there, 7 sisters is really cool. Thanks man, happy hikin’

[@MB100-u8f]

I really enjoyed this video. I wouldn't class myself as an experienced hiker yet, as while I have done several long-distance walks, I have only done one National Trail (the West Highland Way). South Downs Way does appeal as one option for within the next couple of years. My biggest problem, as I am finding on the South West Coast Path, which I am doing sectionally, is my pace. Even though I have so far always used luggage transfer if doing more than one day at a time, my pace can be very slow. And the terrain seems to have a disproportionate effect on my pace compared to other walkers on the trail. I remember last autumn taking nearly as many hours as miles one morning on the SWCP on the section just to the east of Sidmouth, although I hit nearly 3 miles an hour during a section that was flat through fields. My 'all day pace', terrain permitting, is probably 2 miles an hour. So, 20 mile days are a bit tough, I am more of a 15 mile walker.

[@michaelingledew]

Best advice video for the SDW I have found -thank you - I plan to do the SDW next year (2019) as part of my scheduled midlife crises - then I plan to do the Coast 2 Cost - most interesting for me is your suggestion on lightweight footwear - I have been training wearing boots and my feet are in tatters after 15-20 miles! Am going to try all of your suggestions - I already learned the hard way about traveling light - my first training hike I packed everything - second hike - next to nothing! I do have a question - how do you get over the 'fear' of wild camping? Thanks again and subscribed to your channel - Mike

[@thetrailhunter4469]

Hi Michael. Thanks very much for the kind words and glad you found the video useful. Haha I had my crisis a little early so just went for it. Yes, footwear is really important. The South Downs is so flat for the most part and due to the weather you want something light, comfortable and that’s going to dry fast if it rains. Boots will chew your feet to shreds and take the best part of a day to dry. To answer your question, the best way to get over the fear is to pick a spot where nobody will be likely to bother you. Maybe by some trees with a lot of pine needles on the ground for a soft bed and go for it. Don’t camp near farm houses in clear view and always leave no trace. If you’re by yourself it’s much easier. Also get a head torch with a read light so you don’t make yourself conspicuous to passers by in the night and you’ll be fine. If someone asks you to move, just pack up and find another spot. Hope his finds you well, please do consider making a video of your experience, I’ll be watching and it’s good for memories. All the best and happy hiking.

[@thetrailhunter4469]

(a head torch with a red* light) apologies.

[@24bellers20]

Salomon speedcross 3 or 4. Forget the boots

[@thetrailhunter4469]

Agreed

[@hatsuras6333]

Planning my first time here in the UAE, no idea where I’m headed but starting in Abu Dhabi, just really need to get away from everything and explore

[@cdwc]

Good video and good tips. Wish he pronounced the 't' in water though it did my head in.

[@thetrailhunter4469]

Thanks for watching! Glad you made it to the end.

[@beechwood74]

Enjoyed that thanks Russ and feeling inspired. It’s not the South Downs Way (yet), but have started walking the Thames Path today as it’s my nearest National Trail. Just done 6 miles. Will do another section another day or weekend. Building up the ole legs which surprisingly feel a little stiff! The aim is to eventually make it to the source of the Thames in the Cotswolds which, according to my calculation, is 174 miles from where I am sitting! eek! Using a website which breaks it all down into chunks averaging about 10 miles a piece.

[@thetrailhunter4469]

Hi Ben. Ahh fantastic thanks very much and glad you’re enjoying the content. Amazing, heard the Thames path is really nice. Are you starting in London? It’s really good to build up the pace gradually to begin to get the miles in. Haha, starting is the only way to start though so fair play. Would you mind sharing with the community what website that is? Many thanks Ben. And good luck!

[@beechwood74]

The Trail Hunter Here you go Russ and anyone else that’s interested: www.thames-path.org.uk/

[@thetrailhunter4469]

Thanks Ben. Wicked. I used a website called gb.mapometer.com/ which is amazing for making routes and planning. Gives a good overview as well as elevation. Try it out. All the best.

[@beechwood74]

Photos of the first 5 miles: photos.app.goo.gl/iLRfHG6zXk1shVjw8

[@thetrailhunter4469]

Ahh thanks Ben! Brilliant, cheers for sharing. Bet it will be fantastic hiking to the source as you said. Was that you ion a kayak?? Brilliant stuff mate.

[@kimpriessloft371]

Hi Russell. I am a huge fan of your videoes and your perfect english pronounciation (nice for foreigners like me 😜) I don’t think however, that your gearlist on your website is updated?🤔 Greetings ✌️😃

[@MegaParkhurst]

Thanks v much. The Frankland Arms is open again!

[@thetrailhunter4469]

Is it really? I’ll have to stop in for a pint next time.

[@LordQuiche]

Might head out end of September!

[@shabeershebi4374]

Very helpful tnx bro

[@thetrailhunter4469]

Thanks mate. Any questions let me know. 🤙

[@shabeershebi4374]

@@thetrailhunter4469 i want to tolk sam i need youer whatsapp nomber

[@trevpackerphotography]

Awesome and insightful, my wife and I are in the planning stages for a charity walk in aid for Martlets. Looking forward to walk. Thanks. Trev

[@thetrailhunter4469]

Hi Trev. Glad you enjoyed the video and that you found it useful! Good luck on your charity walk. Any questions, let me know. 👍

[@azza4044]

You should do the Pembrokeshire coast path

[@thetrailhunter4469]

Hiked a section of it not long ago and was stunning! Thanks 👍

[@English.Andy1]

Trail blazer walking guide has water points on it

[@steffpeeters7609]

Is the view at 13:37 included in this hike?

[@thetrailhunter4469]

Hi Steff. Yes that’s the 7-sisters near Eastbourne

[@MumInAHurry]

Blimey.... getting up at 4am??? I’m doing SDW in August. Planning to do it over 9 days as I’m an inexperienced hiker. I’m staying at campsites along the way as I’m not sure about wild camping and I’m doing it on my own. Love the tips. I also have the same jetboil gas water cooker. I’m in awe of you doing it in 3 days. I’m definitely not in your level. But I figure that’s okay!

[@thetrailhunter4469]

Haha yeah it was definitely good to get up nice and early and hike while it was cool. Very hot indeed! Thank you, I’m glad you found the video useful. It was a killer, but I couldn’t take much time off work so had to smash it in a few days. I did feel the pain though. Good luck with your SDW hike! Any questions, let me know. 👍

[@MumInAHurry]

The Trail Hunter Thanks. I’m slowly getting everything organised. I’m currently finalising my camp sites bookings. I think its probably wise of me to do shorter walks each day as a) I’ve never done anything like this before, b) it might be super-hot in August and c) I don’t want to push myself too much and then struggle and give up. I’m really looking forward to it!

[@thetrailhunter4469]

​@@MumInAHurry Yes, of course. Get those hiker legs in before you head out and do consider lightweight breathable footwear to minimise blisters, fast drying and for comfort. I currently use the Altra Lone Peak 4.0, here's the women's version. amzn.to/2Hzexjo they're so good and I've never gotten a single blister and I've done all of the three peaks, sections of the SWCP and the Ridgeway trail in them. Either those or something with a thick sole and as little drop as possible. Boots will tear your feet to shreds.

[@bookofnahum445]

Take something for insect bites. My wife and I just abandoned our attempt because of the amount of horsefly bites. Apparently there is a massive increase of them this year.

[@thetrailhunter4469]

The little blighters!

[@jbradshaw4236]

3. 5 days to walk my local SDW that is no mean feat. Respect. My ambition is to do it in three. .. atb

[@ryangarrick8903]

Do you have any favourite sections? I am, irrespective of tip 10 looking to do some of the SDW with 3 friends before one of our group heads off traveling. It may be that we do the full trip but time permitting if we were only to do 60 or so would you recommend a certain start point?

[@thetrailhunter4469]

Hi Ryan, thanks for watching. Cool stuff and sounds exciting! I would highly recommend starting at Eastbourne if you’re only doing 50 or 60 miles the walk along the 7 sisters coastline is awesome, and the section along the tops of the Downs heading up to Southease and Lewes is very nice too. Hope that helps, any more questions, let me know. 👍

[@ryangarrick8903]

@@thetrailhunter4469 Awesome, thanks for the response, will plan to reverse and start at Eastbourne then. Keep hunting dude!

[@thetrailhunter4469]

Cheers Ryan. Yeah, heading Eastbound from Winchester I found didn’t get interesting for miles. I bumped into someone heading Westbound between Amberly and Washington and he said I was up for a treat on the last leg. Let me know how you get on.

[@desrynne2720]

Hi What weight would your back pack be on a hike

[@abbirawlins9541]

Is the side and south west coastal path the same ?

[@thetrailhunter4469]

Hi Abbi. Sorry not sure I understand. You mean the South Downs Way and the South West Coast Path?

[@timbhaovard1327]

My longest hike is 40.55 miles which I completed in June 2024

[@wh781231]

Did you need the tracking poles?

[@thetrailhunter4469]

I very rarely used them

[@wh781231]

Thanks

[@themightyspoon9641]

I’m starting this epic quest tomorrow don’t think the weather will be as nice as you had sadly

[@thetrailhunter4469]

Amazing! Good luck. It’s an epic quest for sure. At least it won’t be as scorching hot. 👍

[@edenbreckhouse]

I agree with travel light but how does that tie in with carrying 3kg of water as that's a massive extra weight? I've done some big hikes (400 miles, 350 miles) and never carried more than 1litre with an all up pack weight of 7kg plus food plus water.

[@thetrailhunter4469]

My base weight was light for this hike but yeah I carried a lot of water to test out my water rationing skills and seeing how much water I needed. Thanks for watching! Any more questions, let me know.

[@edenbreckhouse]

I think with water, it shouldn't really be a problem unless you're staying high up for a long time following crests, peaks and watersheds, otherwise water should be easy to get with a decent water filter. On my big hikes even carrying 3 days food instead of 1 day made a massive difference to how hard it was. Enjoyed the video.

[@thetrailhunter4469]

Thanks very much for your advice. I’ll definitely take it into consideration. Thanks again for watching, glad you enjoyed it!

[@billbalding3705]

Most cyclists don't use bells

[@thetrailhunter4469]

Watch out of you’re hiking the South Downs folks!

[@steveb8269]

@Bill Balding I don't understand why cyclists wouldn't use a bell, you can buy small unobtrusive thumb bell for £1... better to be an advocate for good and be considerate of all trail users....I walk and cycle (mtb)

[@BackpackerScience]

@@steveb8269 propably to uncool. In Germany a cyclist even if it's not his fault and has an accident with a walker gets some of the fault in front of the law if he/she doesn't have a bell... 😅 I don't get why dey don't have one 😒

[@RogerHolden]

I always ring my bell, slow down and always give a cheery hello. On the SDW I completely stop for oncoming horses and let them pass me. But when I do all that and still get a grunt and evil look from a walker, I can't tell you how much it p***es me off!

[@tarikmounih3559]

Lllllllliiiife Habibi ...D Free Life 🤙💚✔

[@therigbyfamily4129]

Hiya mate, myself and 12 others are attempting to walk 180 miles in 5 days. We are doing this for charity and need someone who has expertise in this field. The walk is being covered by ITV and keeps getting bigger and bigger every day. We are looking for someone to come in vlog the trip and point us in the rite direction with kit, equipment, nutrition etc. The group is mostly military and ex military with a few civilians. We start on the 08/04/20. Let me know if you are interested mate.

[@grahamconquerghc2358]

I done it in less than 12hrs when training for the paras

[@thetrailhunter4469]

I think you’re either lying or you were driving 😂😂😂

[@andystanley562]

Starting on thursday the south downs way in 6 days then straight upto do the pilgrims way/north downs way 9 days

[@thetrailhunter4469]

Amazing! Sounds like a really good trip. Good luck!

[@fahadabdullah6290]

No link came about Lmao 😂😂😂😂

[@grahamconquerghc2358]

1 enemy but rub butt was like the flag off Japan

[@thetrailhunter4469]

😂😂😂 what???? Omg 😆

[@hatsuras6333]

You look like the guy from worth it

[@1985tonyjones]

Did you get permission of land owners for the wild camping because unless the law has changed I believe its strictly prohibited.

[@thetrailhunter4469]

Tony BN3 I camped on Access land and Access woodland after dark and and before sunrise, on my own, in a small tent, left no trace and lit no fires. This style of camping is promoted by the national trust.

[@1985tonyjones]

The Trail Hunter that’s fair enough. I was never sure. I live Worthing (just off of sdw) Done 20 miles on it yesterday. Keep up the vids 👌🏻

[@thetrailhunter4469]

Thanks so much Tony. Yeah it’s a funny area with that. But access land is around and I had no problems at all.

[@lisztygames6352]

I want to walk from south africa to russia, dprk, china and then trough europe and back to belgium, probably 30 000 km

[@fawnface]

Why so fast, my lover?

[@GavTatu]

the challenge ?

[@mikegreen9774]

Tip 1 Dont buy Patagucci

[@thewelshnomad7094]

Strange, everyone raves about their Patagonia gear 🤷🏻‍♂️

[@vatsmith8759]

Some useful stuff, but the background music does not make it easy to follow what you are saying.