becoming a backpacker: my first solo trip

PLZ READ: Before anyone asks where this is or what trail it is that I hiked just know that I purposely left enough “hidden in plain sight clues” throughout the video for you to figure it out on your own with a little bit of research (think of it like a scavenger hunt or an Easter egg hunt hehe) ALSO: There still be tons o bots and spammer-scammers out there. Do not fall for them! I will never, would never, message a person offering or asking for money/prizes/etc or any sort of incentive to chat with me on another app/txt like telegram/whatsapp etc. (I do my best to stay on top of ‘em but it’s a waste of precious time tbh ;P)

Just found your channel. I am a single woman with no friends and no family who would be interested in this. But I want to go hiking and camping so badly. I did one solo trip - first hiking and first solo during Covid to the Zion National Park in Utah. Almost died twice but it was so amazing. You're such an inspiration! Keep it up! And don't worry, I would have cried too.

First time watching you...congrats on your first solo trip. You're crying not because you are a crybaby, but because doing big things, accomplishing goals, especially by yourself, is life changing. And that's emotional. And scary. And amazing. And the overwhelming emotions rise to the top that you are in the midst of accomplishing something important to you, you are in nature, surrounded by these amazing views, and you are fortunate enough to be able to do these things. That's worth tears. I've experienced that every time I've been on a solo trip. Congrats again!

Wow what are the chances. I came across your video while editing my own of this gorgeous hike. My fiancé and I met you on this trail as you were hiking up and us hiking down. You shared with us your backpack fitting experience, how REI helped and how it was your first solo camp. We were glad to meet you. You were so sweet and kind. Best of luck to you and all of your upcoming adventures. ❤Taryn and John

Crying in the backcountry, it happens to me all the time! Nature is so healing, seems that the stress of life combined with all the love and gratitude in your heart explode in overwhelming emotion when looking out a such beauty all around you. First solo's are special! congrats!

"girl dies from overwhelming happiness" hahaha, loved this one. also that blue hour shot with the lit tent...gorgeous gorgeous gorgeous

I really love the enthusiasm and the fact that you are not one of those extreme through-hikers. You being mortal makes this feel inspiring and achievable.

Great video, thanks for sharing the ups and downs with us. One small tip I could offer, that could prevent a HUGE problem for you: DO NOT get into the habit of pouring boiling water into your hand.... Put the bag on the ground, and always pour water in a direction that is away from your body. Even into a cup for coffee, if you're holding it on the gound to steady the cup, move your hand over to the side, so if you over pour, you miss your hand or fingers. Burns would be bad in daily life, in the backcountry, injuries are even worse. Please girl, be safe.

As a lifetime backpacker who often goes solo, I’m so glad you’re experiencing this brand of adventure. I think it’s a life-changing hobby that improves our relationship to Nature and ourselves. Bravo! 👏🏼🌿

Moved to tears with life's beauty and Mother Nature. You're always on the right path. Thank you for sharing.

Sometimes the beauty around us is just overwhelming and what a beautiful spot you picked to set up your tent.

This is the time to get out and do the adventures while you can. There are many out there with this on a bucket list that they may never get to do and to enjoy what nature and scenery to see hike and create memories. Thank you for taking us on this path.

PNW is soooo beautiful. 😢right with ya, happy tears you are living a beautiful life. The view and beautiful trail you hiked, camped at the perfect spot , Mountain View ,the emotions can run high when we are out in nature in a beautiful serene quiet place with nothing but the sounds of nature all around us. Makes you feel alive!! There is nothing wrong showing your emotional side. Sometimes the release alone makes us feel so much better. U are so adventurous and fun thank you so much for taking us along on this beautiful backpacking trip, look forward to what you will be up to in Canada.✌️🌻

I've backpacked all over these mountains and have found myself overcome with emotion the same way and I'm 58! It's too stunning for words. Let me know if you ever want some less traveled amazing destination hikes! Thanks for sharing this!

I think you cry because your a caring feeling person and when faced with the incredible beauty of the natural world emotion takes over. I'm a 66 year old man and not ashamed to say I've done the same thing a few times most recently on the Dalton highway above the artic circle. Love your vidios, keep on keeping it real 💞

The rawness and realness of your emotions throughout this is what makes me so beyond excited to do my first solo backpacking hike. You’re amazing.

I used to backpack (not the type people seem interested in today - Baja to Canada). I'm 74 now and camp and day hike. I'm impressed by your first effort to solo. In fact, you impress me. "Go for it girl, go for it!"

Beautiful scenery, beautiful story, beautiful tears. Thanks for sharing Anna and thanks once again for your vulnerability. For the record, there's absolutely NOTHING WRONG with crying. Most of us could/should let those tears out more often. It's OK to feel ALL the emotions; that's what makes us human. Take care and keep living YOUR life. In gratitude, Tim

Anna those tears are mother nature filling and healing your soul. Mother she makes me cry some time too and I am 71.

Ah I so get the crying. The landscape is just overwhelmingly beautiful and you made it to that view all by yourself.