My First Solo Backpacking Trip

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[zfinest]

I remember my first "solo" backpacking trip; it was quite an adventure. I saw myself as a nomad and acquired a vast array of camping gear. Looking back, I realize that none of it was genuine backpacking or ultralight equipment. Once I had collected what I believed was necessary, I told my mom about my backpacking intentions. "Where to?" she asked. "The Colorado Trail, " I answered. She laughed, "You do know that's a 500-mile trail?" I hadn't known, but I pretended to be confident and embarked on the journey. Five days later, I had to summon my brother for a rescue. It was a truly eye-opening experience. Fast forward 20 years, with far more experience and three attempts behind me, I finally conquered the 498-mile trail in five weeks. That's when I discovered who I am and what I'm capable of, and now my friends are disappointed when I choose to hike solo rather than with them.

[carolyncabrera]

Yes I’m a single girl wanting to hike and go backpacking but I’m scared too ! Love your videos you inspire me to get out there and enjoy my life solo

[briankane]

I highly recommend a GPS Tracker like "Spot". If something goes wrong, your friends know where you are within 15 feet. I use mine when kayaking because I go into places that are so remote, no one would ever find me. Great channel!!

[amyhoeppner]

thank you for showing all the parts of your trip that no one else ever seems to show! I'm just now getting into backpack hiking, with plans to spend a few days on the AT next April. I've been watching videos, reading all I can, and following hikers on FB...but you have put the pieces together for me! I know it sounds silly, but it's good to see how everything comes together, from setting up your camp, to cooking your meal. Thanx

[mhga]

Every video posted lately I learn how much more interesting and exciting your hikes and adventures are. Feel like the future videos will be a must watch! Gotta get one of those knives for myself.

[rosemarymcleod]

Loved that trail. The scenery and views were amazing. You picked a great place to camp and I loved all the sounds of nature 😊

[lpttskq]

Portable Fishing Rod Kelly. Fun and Food. CDT GREAT IDEA 🎉

[johnmorganjr]

The ultimate 'head clearing', peaceful, nature experience !! The BEST !! 🙏👍🏞💯

[RickINFJ]

You definitely made the right campsite choice! You giving that raccoon a brow beating was hilarious! 😂 Hopefully the MRE didn't induce an emergency cat hole diggin'. Love the new gear. 👍 This has to be your most serene vlog yet. So peaceful. Thanks a million Kelly! ✌️

[fightforfreedomneversurren]

Finally a backpacking video that actually involves backpacking and not just the gear. I love backpacking in Idaho because there are many lakes to hit that most people will never see.

[courtneysmit]

Yes make a video on how you got comfortable backpacking by yourself ! Love your videos ❤

[debbieh]

Kelly!!! Great hike!! Thanks for taking us along. I always look forward to seeing where “we” are going next. 😂


Making a video about solo camping and how to be safe and comfortable with it is a great idea. I think it would be helpful to many people. Lots of us women let being alone hold us back from getting out there and enjoying nature. And it shouldn’t be that way.
Just using some common sense and letting someone know where you’re going and when you expect to return is the biggest thing.

I’m so looking forward to the CDT, Kelly! Can’t wait! ❤

[trailandtravel]

I do almost all of my backpacking solo. It can be a bit nerve racking sometimes but also there is no greater sense of freedom! Thanks for sharing!

[HeathersHikesAndAdVANtures]

Loved the little butterfly moment! Great job on your first solo backpacking trip!

[RJ-ixco]

You have definitely came a long ways in your 4 years of vlogging. Been fun watching you grow so much professionally and personally in all your videos. Keep going and growing! God Bless ❤💪🏽

[johnmcgrew]

Thanks for sharing your trip. I'm looking forward to my first solo backpack trip soon!

[OakleyOriginals]

Arkansas is the BEST- one of our favorite getaways close to home. That loop includes all the classic features of AR- thick forests, wildflowers, POISON IVY (yuck), clear waters with aqua pools, waterfalls, & rock cliffs. We were just there, camping at Long Pool Rec. Area. Thanks for this great video showcasing the trail and some of your new gear!

[Randee]

Thank you for posting, it was so cool to see that loop trail.

[stpetie]

I'm really looking forward to the CDT videos. Arkansas is beautiful. I have family in southern MO near the AK border and the Ozarks are gorgeous. I spent 3 months in Hot Springs on a project about 12 years ago and enjoyed that area tremendously.

[david]

Nice video of the area. Did the trail last year a nice relaxing trip. Always best to carry water away from creeks for dishes & things. Good luck on the CDT