V10E2: Canyon Trek and the Mogollon Rim

The week kicks off with a strenuous, yet beautiful, overnight hike into a lush canyon in Coconino National Forest. To call it a "hike" is a bit of misnomer, as most time was spent sloshing through West Clear Creek or floating along in the Kokopelli pack-raft. Craving comfort food, I set off in the Jeep to Pine, Arizona, where I acquire a delicious, meat-encrusted pizza. The labyrinthine network of roads in Tonto National Forest beckon, as I take to Mogollon Rim for a scenic backcountry drive.
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[@calsurflance5598]

Chris, you are showing us parts of this beautiful country that 99 percent of us will never (find the time)to experience ourselves! Your photography is fantastic. The scenery is breathtaking. And your minimalist approach to adventure make your channel worthy of Discovery Channel!

[@chrismc.893]

With all that’s going on in this crazy country tonight, this is my escape from it all! Thanks Chris!!!

[@BertineFamily]

Agreed

[@jakelannetti3128]

I think this was one of the best episodes ever. I think Arizona has got to be my next trip.

[@aaron5222]

In my head I was always against Arizona. I did a few long term jobs various locations and I love it now such a great place.

[@anybodyoutthere3208]

I’m in the state and have not explored this area. Has to be my next stop. It really was one of his best videos

[@KimHaberbusch]

We absolutely loved this Chris. Everything was beautiful, the views & scenery & the clarity of your photography. Our favourite bit? Seeing you looking so healthy and happy 😊 Take care & thank you 🤗🙂🇦🇺

[@wibornz]

Tip of the day for you . Vanilla Extract. Rub it on exposed skin and black flies and nats will not bother you. I learned this and put it to the test during a 11 day horse back ride a cross Michigan... The shore to shore. They even rub it on the horses face and ears to help protect the horses. Thank me later...

[@evilcam]

Good tip.

[@PWlangford1]

And it smells good.

[@danmarklesr6260]

Bears love it, its used for bait. Black-flies are worse. Thanks for the tip, will try next season.

[@josephpaul6791]

what about tics

[@raksh9]

Repels flies and gnats. Attracts bears because you'll smell like marzipan. 😁

[@phstudio100]

13:59 Never have I ever, ever, ever have I been able to roll up my ARB awning room that small. Every time I try to roll mine up it's a struggle. Chris, you are a wizard!

[@djackbar504]

Chris, in the event no one has said it before, you are better than RickSteves. OK, so he mostly travels to and reviews European landmarks and places, he misses the real everyday regular people and places. Your humor is so natural and always seems spontaneous despite the fact we (the collective that follows you) know you may do many takes before deciding on what you actually release. You have shared NorthAmerica like no other. ( We appreciate how you do not make you the focus, though you do include yourself in shots, but rather the trails taken.) Thank you. Am glad you have stayed healthy. 'Til next time.

[@softroadingthewest]

It was somehow very satisfying to see you get to the bottom of that canyon and have lugging the boat pay off so beautifully. Fabulous episode.

[@micd9256]

You've done the outdoors in Arizona justice. Again. It's been great having you here. Safe travels.

[@Perry3377]

No Hubba, Hubba..... 😆 The canyons are beautiful this time of year. Just watch the weather forecast and rising waters. Flash floods are lethal. Cool video Chris, Deet for those pesky midges! Safe travels Perry

[@hermit6208]

Yes, I was thinking that as lovely as that Gorge was, with a heavy rain that place would turn into an absolute maelstrom

[@ronsmith1364]

@@hermit6208 Scary thing is the waters can come from miles away & no local disturbance to warn you. Similar to the "bolt out of the blue". Beautiful float trip though, that few will get to do.

[@TheTrakker]

I always thoroughly enjoy your videos. After taking my granddaughter for a Jeep ride through our pasture and the woods I was sitting in my chair tonight reading Nathaniel Philbrick's Bunker Hill, and my darling granddaughter asked if we could watch the Jeep Man videos. Thats you Chris, you're to be forever known as The Jeep Man! We were both in awe of that canyon. What a beautiful place! And I am so thrilled that she has that sense of curiosity about travel to the undisturbed places. I hope and pray that she never loses the sense of wonder and wander. And I believe that you're part of that. For that I thank you. God bless

[@scottseifert4086]

Awesome kayaking! Burgers Chris, let your pan get hot over med-med high heat. Throw burger on and don't touch it until you see blood coming through the top, then flip. It'll be a lot less clean up and a much better sear on your burger.

[@evilcam]

That canyon, coming and going was some of the best footage you've ever captured.

[@metaxaanabeer]

Chris, your channel, Playing With Sticks and Slim Potatohead are the only three I truly look forward to video after video. Others I'll watch here and there but the three of you bring a modern Thoreau at Walden Pond vibe I really enjoy. Thanks for what you do.

[@ScubaSteveCanada]

Yup ... Slim Potatohead recently hit 100,000 subscribers ... Chris, it's your turn now. Not familiar with "Playing with Sticks" and will check that channel out.

[@jedwards1975]

Made the mistake of looking at the news. I needed this. We miss AZ

[@johnnycastillo9646]

We ran into you at West Clear Creek, I was the one with the hole in my tube as we were making our way back. Great seeing the video and your adventures.

[@kindness-p1w]

We miss you , hope you are OK. Can't wait till your next vid. We are 2 of your loyal viewers. So far we have watched every one of your vids twice.

[@NewAgeDIY]

Amazing and scary trip. But the video footage will be priceless for any travel agency. Very impressed with the little yellow boat 🚣‍♀️ Chris! Take care.

[@anybodyoutthere3208]

Holy Canoli!! This was over the top awesome. The rafting through the canyons just about had me jump in the truck and load up! I’m in AZ and just ready to explore that area. Chris seriously this was one of your best videos. Enjoy your next stop. Please take us along 😎

[@postxtito]

This is your best episode yet, Chris 💪🏼👍🏼♥️

[@r93364]

I love the way you film Arizona, you capture its best in every way. With the craziness of everyday your journey here in Arizona makes me remember why i love living here. Please watch out for the Rattle snakes we seem to have more then our fair share lol and always remember you are in Bear country up on the Rim.

[@ferg4847]

Glad to have you back out & about!!! Scenery was awesome! 👍🏾

[@gregorybarnett4078]

We have snakes out now- get a pair of snake gaiters. Well worth it. Safe travels.

[@julierawlins5984]

Absolutely! I was wondering about snakes as he waded through the tall grass.

[@ipaddlemyowncanoe.7441]

Another good one is always that Canyon was Unreal😀👍👍🍕🌵🚣

[@stevebrandwein9102]

Loved this episode. I used to call Pine Arizona home so this brought back some great memories. Happy trails!

[@Gonethinkin]

I've been watching your channel for a few years now and i can honestly say you've inspired me beyond belief. I am an aspiring photographer/visual storyteller and I also overland in my JKU and love backpacking. In fact I was so inspired by your content I became a patreon donor. If I may offer a life saving piece of advice from my backpacking escapes... Trash Compactor Liner Bags to line your pack will save your stuff from moisture and they are dirt cheap. I open one up in the bottom of my pack and put anything I don't want getting wet in it and then fold it over to seal it. I then grab another in the very bottom of my pack as a spare. You'll thank me later!

[@jimmyaugustine4181]

You have to go to Ouray , Silverton and hit all the 4or passes. I'm from Maryland and my wife and I went there last year. Truly a gem of the state. YOU HAVE TO GO!!!

[@StoneyOutdoors]

That pack raft paid for itself in this video alone, amazing!

[@kyliescrap]

Another great video!! I love waking up Saturday mornings to live virtually through you! Thank you! Hopefully we will be out and about camping soon!

[@DirtwalkerOutdoors]

Wow. What an incredible site. I'm envious. You're living the dream, Chris.

[@choiceadventure1838]

It is truly awesome episode. You nailed it. You are the real vagabond. Thank you. Look forward to more adventures

[@erichughes9098]

Thank you Chris for a wonderful video 😎👍

[@seanfrank4158]

Boating through that canyon looked incredible.

[@seanfrank4158]

That fast motion driving shot on the Mogollon Road was pretty cool too.

[@michael_linden]

Excellent Adventure! Keep the rubber side down Chris.

[@ssgoblin]

As others have said...Thanks. Feels like we are getting back to normal. Saturday mornings with a cup of coffee and your video.

[@howardmcconnell4170]

Chris have been missing your weekly travels ,been almost two weeks, hope your healthy and jeep in good shape. Enjoy your U tubes Very much ! Been a subscriber for several years . Enjoy overlanding , have two JEEPS , a 2001 TJ ,33s , 4:10s ,and Detroit lockers,frt. And rear,Warn 8000 wench ,ARB frt .bumper ,rear bumper rugged ridge with swing out tire carrier with carrier over spare with 5gal. Gas mounted to side of carrier . BDS ,3inch lift . The other JEEP 2014 ,rubicon 4 door ,1200 lbs ,bad land wench .BF Goodrich tires ko2 , smitt y

[@johnscott9829]

Best episode ever

[@frednewton9323]

Its always great to see you out in my county. This is why I moved to Flagstaff 35 years ago. Good to have you back Chris. Enjoy!

[@flyfish6473]

You might consider a Clam Quick-Set Traveler Screen Tent in the future. With it you get both bug protection and open air sun protection, from your awning, at the same time. Not as big as your ARB screen room, but the ease and speed of setup/take down, less than 45 sec., can't be beat. Big enough for two, ideal for one. Nice video.

[@patandjessicasjeepadventur3227]

Those shots from your campsite at 17:00 were spectacular and the deep fire pit shot made us laugh our asses off Thank you for a great trip

[@chriselliott188]

The horse always gets care first.. never know when you’ll need a fast horse. Enjoy the room and pizza. Stay safe and please keep up the great work. Thank you.

[@txhypnotist]

Nothing in life is "Random". Chris, this week you really got some amazing shots of the canyon. I bet a bunch of people buy that little boat. What a place to see. Thank you very much for this experience I can tell you that I was feeling every turn and the beauty of it all will stick with me forever. Thanks for doing all the hard work, the effort was effortless on my end.

[@steveakersdrums]

Great stuff.. beautiful canyon.. and Chris you have a wit about you that is worthy of tv.. lol

[@13Laurba]

Amazing video maybe my favorite! That canyon!

[@Mink_24]

As always .... great episode .... the wife and I spend our evenings watching your videos. We started at the beginning and are working our way through them all. Keep up the great work & stay safe!

[@rogerhector5885]

those rock formations love it

[@kenuber4766]

"Little Dealies" are what is known out here in the west as Fox Tails.

[@swikfors]

Wow! We crossed paths last week! The Mongolian Rim & Pine are awesome! Great vid, Chris!

[@bernardcarpenter6949]

Thank you again Chris for a wonderful video. It's always a joy to get up Saturday morning and see where you're at. Stay safe buddy. We'll see you next week.

[@russrobbins9768]

So glad to see you back on the road. I missed your vlogs...hopefully one day u get up to the okanagan valley in BC where I can meet you.

[@allenheaps2084]

That lovely grass you refer to is June grass. It drys out in late May early June and you are right it totally sucks to get it in your socks and shoes. Your "bug Bites" could very well be the June grass irritation to your legs. I grew up on a farm and man this brought back some memories of pulling the seeds out of socks and shoes and being kept away at night scratching the hell out of my legs due to the irritation. Talk about the perfect way to spread your seed lol. This was a great video, I really enjoyed the river shots and being a night owl I really loved the night shots. Take care Chris and be safe!

[@ronhuffman9909]

Chris, where are you? We're missing this weeks content and hope everything is OK with you. I'm an Arizonian and we love your videos. Stay well !!

[@MichaelAnderson-nh4gu]

Chris has posted some content on Instagram under Venture 4WD

[@troopertrailrunner2641]

You passed us on the Rim around 11:30 that day while we were enjoying the vast views. It's not often you see an orange Jeep with a white camper top with a fuzzy guy behind the wheel. It definitely was a gorgeous day to be there. Had it been the weekend, I doubt you would've got much solitude for filming. There's non-stop traffic on that road on weekends and during the summer. Cheers :-)

[@bluejeans8001]

The rafting in the Canyon was EPIC. What a beautiful camp site. Excellent video for last week & thanks for sharing. Hope all is well with the Jeep

[@waldo9254]

Chris...doesn't seem like you respond to comments but I've watched more of your videos than I care to admit and this is my favorite one so far. The exploring of the canyon was awesome. The burgers, the tent (this was the fist time I've seen you use it) was also cool. Keep up this awesome work. Pre C-19, I'd never take the time for a 20 min KZbin video, now I prefer it to TV. Cheers.

[@venture4wd]

Thank you for taking the time to watch and comment! I hope you and your loved ones stay safe and healthy.

[@RoadKill4Two]

I really enjoy your videos

[@johnglowacki5515]

Here's hoping you are safe and healthy. We're missing the added adventure content, but offer understanding for wherever you are. We might have to revisit older volumes. Hope to see you soon.

[@zanjero]

One of your best episodes! Got to love Arizona!

[@14pro4x8]

Chris, outstanding vlog. It’s got to feel great being back out on the trail. This captured why we overland in every sense. Stay safe, can’t wait for next weeks episode.

[@petervollers]

So awesome exploring that canyon in the portable boat!

[@woodman9505]

Its May 31 2020 St. Paul MN and I so needed this it looks like a AWESOME spot much nicer then whats going on here THANK YOU!!!!!!! I hope every one is staying safe

[@cmdspike01]

This one of your coolest videos we think, thank you Ben & Anna, if you ever come thru Oklahoma on I 40 east your welcome to stop by and spend the night. Thanks Chris for what you doing.

[@hikingff77]

One of my favorite episodes, scenery was amazing as well as the film making.

[@jacobsterner3456]

Admittedly, I laughed at your "Packraft" initially. But seeing this, I'd seriously consider that an almost essential piece of gear. Great videography, keep up the good work!

[@SouthernColoradoWildlife]

We call that cheat grass and the seeds are the pits. Great showing once again.

[@ronnyz10]

Chris, You are a wildman. Thanks for these wonderful videos.

[@donsdiys1140]

Omg at the Grease in that pizza. LOL I bet it was delicious.

[@byknphil]

Welp, that settles it , I'm gonna haveta have a burger or pizza today. Another great episode

[@joshcoleman7997]

Normally don't comment but that was a good video! Thank you for the work & time devoted to editing.

[@papa54321]

With all the back N forth walking to show us cool images I gave you my honorable tumb up Loll Good job chris

[@robertlinva9503]

Hey, Chris, great episode, as usual. I'm glad to see you back out there. I lived in AZ for 9 years and would tell my out-of-state friends that only HALF of AZ is a desert...the rest is beautiful high plains, forest land, waterfalls and never-ending views. I'm glad you got to experience it. Great job on this one.

[@anybodyoutthere3208]

Moved here about 5 years ago. Always have to explain to friends and family about the half state thing. I’m loving AZ’s diversity of climates and landscapes ♥️

[@jwetzel75]

Hey Chris, thanks for all the awesome content especially with all the craziness in this world. Hope all is well and can't wait for the next video!

[@hbjtf]

My parents lived in Payson for many years and the view from their home was the expanse of The Rim. Most folks don’t realize it goes well into NM, and it’s beautiful throughout. Thank, Chris. Hope to see you at an event sometime. May I bring Big Cheez-It’s for you?

[@28TrucksTravel]

We really enjoy your scenic backgrounds!

[@George71964]

Absolutely beautiful scenery.

[@ORflycaster]

Beautiful country!

[@escalade78]

The pack-raft access adventure is a great idea. The video shot you got of the waterfall is absolutely awesome! am going to freeze-frame it, take a screen shot & use it for artwork. Stay Well & Safe Travels!

[@amieemaya9472]

Nice lovely day

[@webbrowne2291]

Cool rafting trip!

[@bobbyrob2008]

Always love your videos and adventures my man....that part of our state is just beautiful!!! 👍👊

[@andreaurquhart9718]

It’s been a couple weeks! I hope you’re doing well! 😯 Looking forward to your next video! 😁

[@dblazer321]

That canyon river looks incredible

[@douglansburg4545]

As always super job ,best boat ride ,thanks again

[@antoniogreciajnr]

Incredible. Thanks for taking us with you on your travels this week.

[@royrcf]

Awesome images great to see you back.Thank you.

[@dendyjarrett8873]

Anyone checking on Chris? So enjoy his videos and now worried since he didn’t post up over the weekend

[@Will-xe5qt]

Thank you, thank you, thank you....just what I needed today,🙂

[@robertrhode6104]

Great to be back on the road with you again. Be well and stay safe Chris. Thanks

[@lasivianleandros3558]

I'm impressed that you pronounced Mogollon right. :D

[@thesolutionstoreroberson6281]

Good to see you again Chris happy trails thank God the pandemic is over

[@peteacevedo3411]

be safe in your travels

[@jonathangriggs477]

So glad to have you back traveling Chris!

[@axisrender]

This one episode is a WAO one, loved the canyons shots, camp setup.. great to watch always... thanks 👍🏻👍🏻💪🏻😊

[@LiveByItHD]

Great video, thanks Chris. My family loves learning from your adventures. AZ next.

[@316lmh]

Beautiful shot of the canyon. Keep em comin.

[@joshandgabby8358]

Phenomenal production as always!

[@captseamus]

One would never catch me that near to the edge ontop of those rocks!! No Way No How!

[@gringo3009]

Beautiful canyon!

[@jotape1960]

Awesome places!!!

[@marcoscustodio6255]

Beautiful places, great video, good to see you back on your adventures. Don’t feel demolished by falling, how many people could do this hike. Looking forwards for the sequences. Take care, safe trips.