5 Must-Watch Backpacking Videos for Outdoor Enthusiasts
Backpacking is a wonderful way to explore nature and challenge oneself. It involves carrying all the necessities on one’s back and spending days or even weeks in the wilderness. However, it’s not without its challenges and risks. To make the most of your backpacking trip, it’s advisable to learn from the experiences of others. In this article, we’ve curated a list of 5 must-watch backpacking videos for outdoor enthusiasts. These videos are not only entertaining but also informative, inspiring, and educational.
1. “Mile, Mile and a Half”
“Mile, Mile and a Half” is a documentary that follows a group of artists, musicians, and adventurers as they hike the John Muir Trail in California. The trail runs for 211 miles through some of the most breathtaking landscapes in America’s western states, including Yosemite, Sequoia, and Kings Canyon National Parks. The film captures the essence of the trail and showcases the beauty of the wilderness, the challenges of the journey, and the camaraderie among the hikers. It’s a must-watch for anyone planning to hike the John Muir Trail or any long-distance backpacking trip.
2. “Wild”
Based on the bestselling memoir by Cheryl Strayed, “Wild” is a biographical film about a woman’s transformative hike along the Pacific Crest Trail. The hike is a cathartic journey for the protagonist, who is dealing with grief, addiction, and personal loss. The film highlights the power of nature to heal and transform us, as well as the dangers and challenges of solo backpacking. It’s a must-watch for anyone interested in wilderness therapy or personal growth through backpacking.
3. “Into the Wild”
“Into the Wild” is a biographical film based on the book by Jon Krakauer. It tells the real-life story of Christopher McCandless, a young man who gave away his possessions and hiked into the Alaskan wilderness, where he lived for 113 days before dying. The film explores the themes of adventure, self-discovery, and the dangers of underestimating the wilderness. It’s a must-watch for anyone interested in the philosophy of backpacking, the ethics of adventure, or the psychology of risk-taking.
4. “180 Degrees South”
“180 Degrees South” is a documentary about a surfer and adventurer who sets out to retrace the 1968 journey of his heroes, Yvon Chouinard and Doug Tompkins, to Patagonia. The film follows the protagonist as he travels by boat, van, and foot, through some of the most awe-inspiring landscapes in South America. Along the way, he meets locals, environmentalists, and adventurers who share their views on conservation, adventure, and sustainability. It’s a must-watch for anyone interested in outdoor activism, conservation, and adventure travel.
5. “The Barkley Marathons: The Race That Eats Its Young”
“The Barkley Marathons” is a documentary about one of the most extreme, grueling, and bizarre ultra-marathons in the world. The 100-mile race takes place in Frozen Head State Park, Tennessee, and involves navigating through rough terrain, dense forests, and unpredictable weather. The film follows the runners as they attempt to tackle the course’s five loops within a 60-hour time limit. The race is known for its humor, cruelty, and unpredictability, and the film showcases the determination, passion, and insanity of the participants. It’s a must-watch for anyone interested in extreme sports, endurance, and the limits of human endurance.
Conclusion
Backpacking is a challenging and rewarding experience that offers us a chance to connect with nature, challenge ourselves, and learn from others. These five must-watch backpacking videos for outdoor enthusiasts showcase the beauty, the challenges, the adventures, and the insights of backpacking in different contexts. From the breathtaking landscapes of California to the wilds of Alaska, from the Pacific Crest Trail to Patagonia, and from personal transformation to extreme endurance, these films offer us a glimpse into the magic of backpacking. So grab some popcorn, sit back, and enjoy!
