So many great tips. I always enjoy your videos. Another tip might be to ignore all the fear mongering. It seems endless on the AT, I'm sure its the same on thr PCT. I'm always amazed at how often I hear about some insanely difficult section coming up, how its nearly impossible for short people, or women, or kids, or dogs, or older folks (I've heard it all). I've been told its impossible to hike with the small kit I carry. 6k miles later and I'm still going strong. Ignore all the fear mongering.
It is the same on every trail anyone will ever do :) Even the easiest of trails out there! I always say to just hike and enjoy, sure beats agonizing over just the idea of what's coming. You'll get there and get over it one way or another
My biggest takeaway from hiking the PCT was the important of consistency. I really started to get in the groove once I started waking up at the same time every day, taking regular breaks, And going to bed at a good time. Before that, some days i'd push myself and do big miles, then the next i'd feel tired and exhausted, sleep in, and do very little. Just hiking at a comfortable pace, doing a comfortable amount of miles everyday was the best thing for me.
It is interesting, yesterday I did a 7.5 mile/2400 ft morning hike, came home, had lunch , then went out for a 8 mile urban walk. Today, I tried to do the 7.5/2400 again, and I was dragging so bad I quit halfway through it and came back to my car. I am training for a section hike on the PCT …. And I have hiked 150 miles so far this year. Anyway….. too much in one day is not at all ideal
Regarding the "eat enough" part, I can't agree more, but it's surprisingly difficult to do. At start you simply won't be hungry. After a few weeks hiker hunger will kick in and you'll start eating more and more, but there's a limit to what can be carried and eaten in a day. I usually start at 2800 cal/d and increase gradually, but I have trouble once it gets above 3500 cal per day, and 4000 is pretty much the maximum I can actually carry and eat. 4000 calories is a bit over two pounds (1 kg) of energy-dense food. If you go for five days between resupplies that's 10 pounds of energy-dense food you need to carry. Then you need to eat it. It helps if you go with something you enjoy eating. Something energy dense but unappealing isn't going to work. Variety is also important for me (even if not for everyone). Another thing that helps is to go with smaller meals. For me four meals a day works best: breakfast, first lunch, second lunch and dinner, each spaced by four hours or so. That means I eat less at each meal, so I'm not as bloated, and it makes managing my blood sugar easier.
Jupiter’s voice is so calming and relaxing. I come home all stressed out from work and listen to Jupiter’s video, and the stress just melts away. You missed your calling Jup, you should have been a therapist.😊
Carry and drink more water. Electrolytes are definitely important in that aspect as well. I’ve walked miles on the AT without water, kicking myself for passing up a good stream 5 miles back because I had a liter and didn’t think I would need another. And it was a shared experience amongst other thru hiker I talked too. It’s not worth the weight saving to go thristy.
Great tips! My advice would fall under HYOH: there is no one way to be successful at a thru hike. If that means carrying a stove to prepare a hot meal you look forward to at the end of the day, then do it! Like to write in a journal? Carry one with you. Some of these details may be the difference between being comfortable/happy and being miserable. A long hike is not a form of punishment, do or bring what will keep you going. ~Flamethrower (PCT '19)
That is absolutely wonderful advice! Everybody is different, has different joys and wants and needs. I hope people experiment with trying different things out there, and don't just copy me exactly as much of what I like most I think would be miserable for many!
When I did the TRT (left my teens with grandma) I was overwhelmed the first day and had to tell myself “it’s just a 3 day trip” till I can decide if I want to keep going. Like you said that helps a lot. Journaling a little each night so I don’t forget things. Pictures of people instead of views are more treasured over time. Being mentally prepared for the super highs (no drugs needed) and heartbreaking lows where your demons come to haunt you for mistakes you regret. That was unexpected but also healing to deal with. I can only do my best and then leave the rest to God (or whatever higher power you believe in). Also the magic of a nero for clean clothes/shower is so renewing. Never had to take a zero thanks to that but again, the TRT is a short one so when I do the AZT I plan to take a few zeros (to see the kids of course!)
Keep a journal. It can be detailed or just a few quick blurbs on your phone. Take lots of pictures, especially of people. You’ll appreciate the memories later on.
I saw a Barry Blanchard slide show years ago, and he said, "It doesn't have to be fun to be fun." Sometimes it's a slog. He was referring to alpinism, but it applies to many activities like backpacking.
My advice would be this: don't let anyone or anything drag you down to the point where you don't think you'll make it. The most hiked woman in the world, Christine Thürmer, is a mid 50s german lady, has knock-knees, flet feet and is a bit overweight. She has hiked 62.000km+. Don't look for excuses not to start/finish your journey!
Stretching is sooo huge for me! Like you said, spending some time each night stretching out is soo helpful for the next day. Especially foot stretches to keep foot pain to a minimum.
I’d like to add a bit about resupply. Don’t try to prepare every ‘expected’ town stop ahead. Do be aware however which are likely to be either expensive, difficult to reach, or limited in what you may want. When you get to a larger town stop, you’ll have a fairly good idea where you’ll stop again in 4-5 days and can then decide if you want to send a box ahead. Town stops can be very fluid, and as mentioned what you want to eat can fluctuate. On my thru a n ‘19 I had a cousin I could send a grocery list too and he would send a along a box from my grocery list.
You are much appreciated because you sincerely care about us hiking folks. I’m A.T class of 71’ and many more long distance treks across the globe and I continue to learn. You are a wonderful teacher. Favor follows you! Thank you
Thanks for the great advice Excellent video. For me food is a challenge. I've adopted your simple meal plan approach, thanks. Adding up calories when buying food helps. I hope this approach works on the PCT this year.
I love your content and it always seems to come at the right time. I’m embarking on my own epic adventure in March, PCT 2024! My biggest thing is to make this the most fun that I can and type 2 fun is enjoyable to me.
Great tips! My best tip is to do resupply boxes and fine tune your electronics setup so you can charge electronics/battery banks, pick up your box, get anything else you need, and get back on trail in 4 hrs or less. Food and lodging are the 2 biggest expenses. I did the PCT on about $5k (including airfare to and from) and ate much healthier because of this approach.
Having hiked the PCT a few years ago I can definitely reiterate being skeptical of other peoples advice, hiked with one guy for a while that hiked most of the trail previously and was chalk-full of bad advice. All that being said, my biggest piece of advice for any aspiring thru-hiker is to dial in your sleep system, ad to make sure that your getting enough sleep. A long thru hike will tear apart your body and a good nights sleep is one of the only ways your body will be able to cope with the abuse over many months
1. Do shorter multi 3- 5 day hikes near home, use and test your gear. Dial in your shoes. 2. Start slow. Set small, achievable goals. You will get stronger. 3. Be flexible, make changes upon execution. Two weeks on experience, gear makes a huge difference. 4. Don’t be afraid to start alone. 5. It’s a marathon, adjust diet, gear. Have fun. It’s a hike, not a camping trip. Pack light. 6. Write things down. 7. Pay attention to the body…especially, take care of feet…eat! If you don’t eat and get extra electrolytes you’ll get weaker. 8. Stretch a little every evening. 9. Do a shorter trail first, before the long hike. 10. Don’t send resupply boxes. Find what it is that’s fun, writing a journal, meeting friends, be a bit selfish. 11. Take more zeros earlier on than later. 12. Save enough money. 13. Leave no trace. 14. Be skeptical of all advice. 15. Look in theses comments for more advice.
If you are new to wild camping [or in an unfamiliar environment]before you get into your tent, try and spend some time sitting outside listening to the sounds of the night before you turn in. If you can familiarise yourself with them, then the tree branch rubbing in a rock won't sound like a wild hog snuffling outside your shelter when you're inside!
I dig the advice! I’m hoping that I can do one of the majors (my eye is on the PCT) within the next five years after I’m hopefully on the other side of employment. This video seems like sound content and I thank you for sharing.
Jupiter - I can’t argue with any of your tips. As an older hiker I keep thinking about my age and its eventual impact on doing endurance/strenuos stuff - All I can do is plug away at keeping my fitness best I can and hope my health allows me to keep on the bike and trails. Love your videos 👍
Testing out new gear is something that I didn't do for my first thru hikes and while nothing major happened, there were so many small inconveniences that added up to significant time lost or uncessary suffering. It's so so important to test out your gear even if that means literally setting up camp in your backyard. Also this is something you'll get better at as your progress through your hike, but having a morning routine figured out for the morning so that you can just shut your mind off and get going quickly in the morning is really helpful. Great video as always!
I love how you keep it real on this channel, years into this you just focus on great hiking related content, and you're not dropping fat stacks on your youtube studio, or a film crew. The value is in the adventure! thanks so much!
Man, you consistently give the best advice. After hiking several thrus, I can confirm that all of this is spot on. My best advice is to find the biggest, steepest hill or staircase you can, and spend as much time as you can feasibly (without risking injury) just walking up and down. Flat training miles are wonderful, but when you hit the trail, having some extra muscle in your legs is going to save you sooo much pain
Great advice Jupiter. I have nearly 3500 miles of hiking under my belt and I still haven't finished a thru-hike. I believe I will finish my next attempt. There are a lot of variables when it comes to a thru-hike that are easy to miss. I've learned a lot about ultralight from you and was able to do my last hike with a sub six pound pack. My next hike I am concentrating on comfort and taking it easy to start out I usually get injured 200 miles from the start of my hikes I believe this because I tend to go fast down hills and I fear the climbs. This time I am going to kill it on the climbs and take plenty of breaks going down. Happy trails man 😊
Tbh, i havent done a very long Thru-hike yet, but something that was very helpful for me on my 5-14 day hikes was to try and take my shoes off whenever i can. That means i took my shoes off in camp, but also most times i paused to refill my water or have a snack. Idk if this is medically proven in any way, but ot made me feel like my feet and especially the skin on my feet were a lot healthier. Just thought i'd share this :D
I love your approach to this as a topic. The mindset you have is so important. Folks say, "Your most important piece of gear is between your ears" but they won't necessarily "upgrade" that piece of gear by choosing an effective mindset for their hike. The wisdom you've gained through your experiences are gifts to those who are considering a thru of their own. THANK YOU!
I watched the gear hike for more typical folks. Great video. Trying to take notes and process. Think it will be a few years until I can have more experience in work so I'll get back to work after. It's something to think about though which is nice to aim for. Next trail is tmb, will do some other hikes in between. Hope your keeping well off and on trail.
2021 : I discover Jupiter's channel, and what thru-hiking is. 2022-2023 : I hike the ECT. 2024 (Today) : I thank you sincerely, deeply, Jupiter , for sharing your insights and knowledge with great teaching skills and true modesty... By sending you this little comment from te Araroa. (A major leap of faith in my life). I do hike my own hike, naturally : approx. 10 kg baseweight (never weighted it !), featuring an Osprey pack, comfort gear and clothes, and extra navigating + mountain safety + first aid equipment. And a good cigar. I always carry kilos of rice, fresh veggies and all the work ! You should see their face when I start cooking ! I loooooove it. 14:10 My advice, you ask ? Don't take photos : simply enjoy yourself and others. A tip off teh hat to you brother, with my large straw hat. See you on the trail, Have a blessed day ! "Troubadour" (FR)
Feet/Shoes are the biggest & most important thing new thru hikers need to pay attention to. Seriously guys, this will end your trip early if you don't have the right fitting shoes/socks & you don't stop to air your feet out.
So much great advice! I learned most of your tips the hard way and am still learning! Thank you for the time, energy, and love you put into all your videos! Much appreciated! Peace ✝️
I have another video that might be good as well then! "100 tips to thru hike the PCT" which is entirely Pacific Crest Trail related tips! A bit less general and more focused. Talking about the gear, the different sections, and everything else
Great content, as usual! What a wonderful way to incorporate all that video b-roll! My tip is to eat 100 calories an hour and drink water every 10-15 minutes while actively hiking. In addition to feeding you, it tells your body, “I’m OK. I’m not fleeing for my life” with all that constant movement. You need constant nourishment to feed yourself and remind your body this is not life or death so all your adrenaline and everything doesn’t constantly spike and crash.
Great video, per usual! I'll definitely keep these things in mind as I prepare for my first thru hike (the PCT!) coming up in April. Happy trails, excited to hear about what you're planning on doing next also. Cheers🍻
Great tips Jupiter! Sorry you have to hear from so many armchair-thruhikers in the comments. Ill never understand how somebody can see how many miles you have hiked and think they can tell you something that you dont already know lmao
A lot of people do add to 'the conversation' and I appreciate the different perspectives. I will always have my ideas on what works for me and what I think will work best for others, but the new viewpoints can still be handy for others I think. The fun in backpacking I guess is having the freedom to go about it in so many different ways!
I'm on the hunt for a good long sleeve hiking shirt. UV is really bad in Aus and NZ. I find sun hoodies too stuffy. Curious what that white one is, and how do you like it? Have ordered a MontBell wrickiron, will see how it goes.
It is the Columbia Silver Ridge Lite, and it is my favorite hiking shirt I have ever worn! Even having tried sun hoodies and other things. Very light and airy. But also something to consider is maybe using a hiking umbrella, as those are really cool and fun, providing a lot of shade and allowing you to wear whatever you want
@@JupiterHikesCheers, looks stylish too which doesn't hurt. I love the idea of an umbrella but I'll be walking the south island of NZ that apparently often gets very heavy winds - I believe you did that recently?
Jupiter, God bless you. Thank you so much for your wonderful videos. Have you ever experienced a big foot close by? Please let me know if maybe a big bear? What did you do? Any advice just in case one of those encounters? Thanks again for your videos. God bless you. 6:02
I have run into quite a few bears, making myself look big and making a lot of noise scares them off pretty quick! As for camping, if you want to avoid animals then avoid camping by water as animals go there to drink and feed. Avoid camping at very popular spots as animals are more accustomed to finding food there. That is what I do!
When u said, the starting date of a thruhike is very important, i was wondering: should i just follow what the webpage of the trail i want to hike is proposing, or should i get deeper into research on what might be the best starting date? How much can i trust, what is generally supposed on the website? Because im sure they dont change and adapt their suggestion to the current circumstances very closely...but idk, im sure they've thought well about what time they suggest.
It depends on the trail, as some trail associations provide awesome resources, while others do not. Some trails can have vastly different conditions month by month, so again it depends! Even if it's a 'recommended time' some digging can still be beneficial as you may want different gear to be comfortable and safe, or you may not want to hike the trail at all during a certain time. I would look into the trail, and find people who started around when you would like to, and see what it was like for them! Something else I like to do is to look up previous years weather, during that timeframe, in that place. Those two things would be basics for me when researching.
Your videos are great!! Thanks once again for all your really helpful content! - Where can I get good online info about this Thru Hike Please? - apart from the associated website (which is super helpful) is there a FB page with good info?? I've done a search and there appear to be numerous pages all doing the same thing - is there one you can recommend to read through and gather more info? In your humble opinion - which is the best time to begin a Nobo hike? broadly speaking.....I know lots of variables, but just a ballpark kinda date - thanks in advance for helping me out :) - oh, when it comes to a "Trail Name" - does the Hiker decide their own name, or is it given to you by fellow Hikers?
To add some information about the Xeros, there's two big reasons I didn't like them. First being that I felt they were poor quality. The first pair I got had the outer sole start to peel off after just two days! The second pair lasted a couple hundred miles fine but the lugs on the sole wore down very quickly in that time. Other smaller issues with durability as well. Second reason is that they are so incredibly minimal I am just not sure I would ever want to recommend them to anyone for a thru hike. And I like minimal shoes! These were just on another level. So the degradation in a short period combined with believing that most would be much happier with a different shoe, and thus I wasn't so stoked on them
I found an article that a RU-vidr with 200,000 subscribers makes about $4,000 per month. So with Jupiter’s subs he’s probably making somewhere around $3,500 per month in ad revenue. I have seen some sponsorship-ESG content for Pa’lante packs on the channel, but it seems pretty informal and most likely limited to Jupiter getting free backpacks. Jupiter also has a Patreon, which he doesn’t plug much on his show, but he does have 104 members, so that probably adds up to a bit. Whatever Jupiter makes from the channel, it’s not lavish, but it’s enough to pursue his dream, which is really great! Good for you Jupiter! Jupiter is not exactly sharing his life story on his channel so there may be other sources of income involved (most likely not a full time job though, since Jupiter through hikes nearly nonstop during the non-winter months).
