Older Hikers: It's Your Time for the PCT!

Older Hikers: Your Time for the PCT is NOW! In this episode I offer encouragement for those older hikers who need a little prod into taking that first step preparing for a long-distance hike. My channel has offered plenty of training and stretching tips for older hikers, but with permit season fast approaching, now is the time to make the commitment for your grand adventure. I share with you all my fears prior to attempting the Pacific Crest Trail in 2022 with my wife, Flash. That year we hiked 2005 miles and in 2023 we finished all but the last 30 miles of the trail due to smokey conditions. I’m convinced an older hiker needs to find the correct why and mindset to embark on a long-distance hike. I have also offered a unique way of looking at how best to train and approach the hike. Please feel free to add constructive comments. I freely admit I don’t know all the answers and have blindspots. Feel free to enlighten me. We may disagree, but I’m not afraid of robust conversations. If you want to support this channel, please subscribe, hit notifications, watch other videos and comment. I strive to respond to all comments. You could also follow AKWild1 on Facebook. Also, I have links to outdoor products that have served me well. I promise I do not accept anything free from gear companies, nor am I sponsored in any way by a company. My opinions about gear and equipment are my own based on my experiences in the field. I want to remain impartial and maintain my integrity, which is critical to who I am. My recommendations are based on my experiences. There are Amazon Affiliate links in the video description. As an Amazon Affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Here are some products mentioned in this video and links: Here are some products I recommend: BearVault BV 500 https://amzn.to/441wui2 BearVault BV475 https://amzn.to/3NNNaE6 BearVault BV450 https://amzn.to/3PxwfqE IKEA Storage Bags (3-pack) https://amzn.to/44mjgwk Kahtool MICROspikes https://amzn.to/43Z4vjf Zip Lube https://amzn.to/3PxeM1K Sawyer Squeeze Coupling https://amzn.to/3qBLJ2z Sawyer Squeeze: Lasted the whole trip, tip to use your buff to pre-filter your water. https://amzn.to/3X1CUuX Trekology inflatable pillow https://amzn.to/3WXvvNi Thermarest: Neo Air, X-Therma Sleeping Pad https://amzn.to/43wNJHO Titanium Spork https://amzn.to/3qzZtec Peak Design – Capture Camera Clip https://amzn.to/43UbGc9 Black Diamond Trail Trek Poles https://amzn.to/43wKeBp Nitecore NU 25, 360 Lumens https://amzn.to/3CiWqcP Nitecore NB 10000 Gen 2 Portable Charger Battery bank https://amzn.to/3N1s2Jb MSR Pocket Rocket 2 Stove https://amzn.to/3OXhtcC Ground Hog Tent Stakes: https://amzn.to/3EOaGeO Foldable Sleeping Mat https://amzn.to/46nE6w9 Brownit Thermolite Sleeping Bag Liner https://amzn.to/4666svo CNOC 1-Liter Water Bladder https://amzn.to/464eVPF Sealskinz Waterproof Treking Sock https://amzn.to/46fAxs8 Vargo 900ml Titanium Ti-Lite Pot https://amzn.to/48velMf Sea to Summit Collapsible Cup https://amzn.to/3Lvy5W7 Outdoor Research Men’s Helium Rain Jacket https://amzn.to/464eDIp Outdoor Research Men’s Helium Rain Pants https://amzn.to/453UReH Xero Shoes Barefoot Sandals https://amzn.to/3tbhnoG Nunn Hydration Tablets https://amzn.to/46mJm35 Liquid I.V. Hydration Multiplier https://amzn.to/46ij2XU Sea to Summit Stuff Sacks https://amzn.to/3t7yech Granite Gear Zipp Sack https://amzn.to/3t7yech Garmin Inreach Mini2 https://amzn.to/4544aeI Vicorinox Class SD 7 function pocket knife https://amzn.to/453zoCW Cotopaxi 1.5 liter Hip Pack https://amzn.to/3RyDEr0 Chums Surfshorts Wallet Lightweight, Zippered https://amzn.to/3Rz7yez Here are some other videos to help ensure success on your long-distance hike: Improved Tips for Older Hikers: https://youtu.be/CYOkvDsFjUw?si=yyFAnH42FRpQmE59 Tips for Older Hikers: https://youtu.be/1SNGbZwe5VQ Stretches to Help Older Hikers Feel Strong: https://youtu.be/u3M6k4tiCE8 Morning Stretches for Hikers: https://youtu.be/cuhO1VMOLa8 Long Distance Hikers Stretches: https://youtu.be/cuhO1VMOLa8 A Pacific Crest Trail Coddiwomple: https://youtu.be/jgWAvNRH-eo Tips to Stay Mentally Strong on the Trail Part 1: https://youtu.be/zQuXW_xnUoU Tips to Stay Mentally Strong on the Trail Part 2: https://youtu.be/bv1m1wSdbDU Ode to an Older Hiker: https://youtu.be/kAxbc2HsYRE #backpacking, #PCT2022, #PCT2023, #Olderhikers, #hiking, #olderbackpackers