The Gray Explorer

The Gray Explorer

Hey I’m John !

On my channel I make content on human powered adventure. If that's boots, pedals or paddles I'm interested.

To me this about exploring what is around us, enjoying our lives whilst we can and not just existing through life. Life is what we make it!

Subscribe and ring the notification bells so that you don't miss a single video and more importantly keep exploring

Now enough chat, grab your bag and lets get going!

Gear to bring on a Day Hike.

Gear to bring on a Day Hike.

The Great Mell Fell thanks

The Great Mell Fell thanks

Kayak Camp at Loch Lomond

Kayak Camp at Loch Lomond

Пікірлер

  • @landyman33
    @landyman333 күн бұрын

    Could you look any more like Adolf Hitler if you tried 😂

  • @WildMel-mk1rz
    @WildMel-mk1rz23 күн бұрын

    Hay John! Great to see you back out and well done on your achievement. Sorry to hear the reason you have been away but glad things are slotting back into place. Life does have a habit of interfering at times but hopefully now you will get back in the zone. Look forward to your next video 🌳😁🌳

  • @TheGrayExplorer
    @TheGrayExplorer23 күн бұрын

    Thanks Mel. You know how much effort I put into this I just put too much pressure on myself sometimes. Hopefully the next video isn't another year away

  • @WildMel-mk1rz
    @WildMel-mk1rz23 күн бұрын

    @@TheGrayExplorer I’m sure it won’t be now you’ve got the taste for it again!

  • @TheSmallSmudge
    @TheSmallSmudge23 күн бұрын

    Really enjoyed these videos! Great content, keep it up

  • @TheGrayExplorer
    @TheGrayExplorer23 күн бұрын

    Glad you like them!

  • @TheSmallSmudge
    @TheSmallSmudge23 күн бұрын

    Brilliant video John!

  • @TheGrayExplorer
    @TheGrayExplorer23 күн бұрын

    Glad you think so!

  • @jemneal2306
    @jemneal230623 күн бұрын

    Aw, miss you buddy, that was lovely to watch, both for the views, the vibes, and to see your face.

  • @TheGrayExplorer
    @TheGrayExplorer23 күн бұрын

    Miss you too man!

  • @edwardmcguinness4040
    @edwardmcguinness404024 күн бұрын

    Good to see you back John.

  • @TheGrayExplorer
    @TheGrayExplorer24 күн бұрын

    Thanks, hope I can keep it up

  • @paulcontursi5982
    @paulcontursi5982Ай бұрын

    My daypack loadout is similar but I also carry a head lamp, toilet tissue and hand sanitizer.

  • @TheGrayExplorer
    @TheGrayExplorerАй бұрын

    Good calls, my toilet bag contains the last two and a shovel

  • @allycarr5588
    @allycarr5588Ай бұрын

    What are the best times to launch with regard to tide times. Many thanks

  • @TheGrayExplorer
    @TheGrayExplorerАй бұрын

    In my opinion, an hour before high tide. But I’d take advice from someone qualified to give it. I’m not qualified

  • @The-GreenHornet
    @The-GreenHornetАй бұрын

    EVERYTHING! You said that you want in a tent is EXACTLY the same things that I desire; because of this you sold me. I gave you a Thumbs up 👍. The price is a bit of a hard pill to swallow, but... if one wants a great quality tent with all the features and our same likes and desires in a tent. Then the price is just a one time hit, and then it's behind you. I too, am looking for all the qualities that you mentioned for my recumbent trike touring. Question... How small does it compress down to if you put it into a compression sack? Thanks again, cheers.

  • @TheGrayExplorer
    @TheGrayExplorerАй бұрын

    It’s a bike packing tent. So the size is very small. Like forearm small. Even the poles have an extra fold to make them smaller. The price point is wild, I’m with you. But buy once cry once I guess

  • @user-wx7wg5cn1m
    @user-wx7wg5cn1mАй бұрын

    Nice review- best of luck with the new bicycle too brother! 🚴🏼‍♂️🌱🌿🧘🏼🙏

  • @TheGrayExplorer
    @TheGrayExplorerАй бұрын

    Much appreciated

  • @stewartdean4009
    @stewartdean4009Ай бұрын

    Covacure is great hammock enjoyed your video

  • @TheGrayExplorer
    @TheGrayExplorerАй бұрын

    Thanks 👍

  • @doubledecker1094
    @doubledecker1094Ай бұрын

    Very useful vid.

  • @TheGrayExplorer
    @TheGrayExplorerАй бұрын

    Glad you think so!

  • @robertshea5159
    @robertshea51592 ай бұрын

    Catapult? In US that is a “sling shot.” Good to see someone else taking their coffee seriously.

  • @TheGrayExplorer
    @TheGrayExplorer2 ай бұрын

    Yeah massive coffee fan, instant is ok, but when you’ve got no weight restrictions you may as well bring the proper toys

  • @4N50N
    @4N50N2 ай бұрын

    really informative video just what i was looking for, thank you

  • @TheGrayExplorer
    @TheGrayExplorer2 ай бұрын

    Glad it could help

  • @desmondbroad1305
    @desmondbroad13052 ай бұрын

    Hi John were planning this trip hopefully for this year.. .great video I love the way you had the two coloured canoes on the map .and you gave your stopping point locations great stuff I've subd 😍

  • @TheGrayExplorer
    @TheGrayExplorer2 ай бұрын

    It’s a great trip, hope you get the weather for Loch Ness! Have fun, safe trails

  • @k4nuu
    @k4nuu3 ай бұрын

    nice paddle, done many white water rivers but trying to do more flat water to chill solo these days. Did you have any access problems in lambton estate. The game keeper has been known to pick issues with kayakers.

  • @TheGrayExplorer
    @TheGrayExplorer3 ай бұрын

    I’ve heard about the game keeper issue before. I know company’s that run this route also avoid lambton estate too. I’ve ran this route twice went through the estate twice and I’ve not been stopped collared or in anyway harrassed on the route. Can’t say that you won’t though

  • @ASKR303
    @ASKR3033 ай бұрын

    hi guys. great video. im going to attempt the same trip myself but my concern is how far did you have to drag your gear from car to water and did you have any hassle parking overnight ?

  • @TheGrayExplorer
    @TheGrayExplorer3 ай бұрын

    We used a campsite right on the water, there was a bit of a hike but nothing mad.

  • @ASKR303
    @ASKR3033 ай бұрын

    @@TheGrayExplorer thankyou think thats what im going to do to avoid any hassle. cheers

  • @TheGrayExplorer
    @TheGrayExplorer3 ай бұрын

    Have a good trip

  • @Headtrons
    @Headtrons3 ай бұрын

    Why does someone want to not be seen while wild camping? I don’t understand your emphasis on hiding.

  • @TheGrayExplorer
    @TheGrayExplorer3 ай бұрын

    Wild camping isn’t strictly legal. Also if your hiking long distance and you want to pitch were you are it’s better to be away from view. A massive orange tent on the edge of a farmers field is going to attract attention you might not want

  • @mcvicar69
    @mcvicar694 ай бұрын

    i did this after we were allowed back outside after the coronavirus event. best trip i’ve ever ever done and would love to go back. we did it in september when the midgeys weren’t rife!

  • @TheGrayExplorer
    @TheGrayExplorer4 ай бұрын

    Honestly, this is the best trip I’ve ever done. I’d do it again tomorrow given the opportunity

  • @mags5761
    @mags57614 ай бұрын

    Great ‼️

  • @TheGrayExplorer
    @TheGrayExplorer4 ай бұрын

    Thanks

  • @WildMel-mk1rz
    @WildMel-mk1rz4 ай бұрын

    Nice one John 🤩

  • @TheGrayExplorer
    @TheGrayExplorer4 ай бұрын

    Cheers Mel!

  • @banksiaspinulosa7442
    @banksiaspinulosa74424 ай бұрын

    Looks like a game changer. 2 years on whats the verdict???

  • @TheGrayExplorer
    @TheGrayExplorer4 ай бұрын

    It really is. The uses for it are amazing. I might actually make a video of the 2 years on, that’s actually a good idea

  • @simonsnow5419
    @simonsnow54195 ай бұрын

    Great video! I'm just about to buy a Camino. How did the bike handle it? I'm also unsure about the "bomber" flared handlebars, cant decide to stick with what i know or try the flared version. Thanks!

  • @TheGrayExplorer
    @TheGrayExplorer5 ай бұрын

    I really like the Camino, I ended up ditching the drops and got flats in the end. I’m not a racer, I don’t have hamstrings I have bacon strings so the thought of getting into that racing stance on a bike is a big fat no. The extra hoop on the flats give me more real estate for the lights and things too. My C2C video has them in. Camino is great though, would definitely recommend it

  • @AMG63
    @AMG635 ай бұрын

    Just on here looking at other people's experiences of this route as im planning on doing it this april/may, im also from the northeast just near tynemouth...anyways good luck for the next attempt and hope the weather is on your side 👍

  • @TheGrayExplorer
    @TheGrayExplorer5 ай бұрын

    Legit this is my favourite trip I’ve ever done. Aye crap we didn’t complete it, but it’s so stunning that I don’t mind at all. Have fun on your trip

  • @AMG63
    @AMG635 ай бұрын

    @@TheGrayExplorer I do most my fishing and kayaking on the west coast so I know what the weather is like up that way, all four seasons in an hour.

  • @TheGrayExplorer
    @TheGrayExplorer5 ай бұрын

    Not wrong there 😂

  • @AndreaRachel617
    @AndreaRachel6175 ай бұрын

    Thanks so much for the excellent review. I had been looking at the Nemo Dragonfly but I think you've swayed me. I'm 5'1 and 71 years old so it should be super roomy and the lighter the better! I also like the extra storage you showed.

  • @TheGrayExplorer
    @TheGrayExplorer5 ай бұрын

    I’m 6foot and it’s roomy for me! So you’ll find it enormous. Hope you enjoy it

  • @sennabus3356
    @sennabus33566 ай бұрын

    Where did you get that sit mat from?

  • @TheGrayExplorer
    @TheGrayExplorer6 ай бұрын

    amazon! www.amazon.co.uk/Klymit-Pillow-Inflatable-Camp-Travel/dp/B00GP143N8/ref=sr_1_14_sspa?crid=28G46Q0NV7RX1&keywords=inflatable+seat+hiking&qid=1705398684&sprefix=inflatable+seat+hiking%2Caps%2C65&sr=8-14-spons&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9tdGY&psc=1

  • @grumpy-dad3701
    @grumpy-dad37016 ай бұрын

    I've got a coffin tent. Easy to put up but literally no room.

  • @TheGrayExplorer
    @TheGrayExplorer6 ай бұрын

    Did like my old coffin tent. Had the oex phoxx when it first came out, far too small for me. Then a laser comp 1. Which I really liked

  • @grumpy-dad3701
    @grumpy-dad37016 ай бұрын

    @@TheGrayExplorer mine is a cheaper version. Just no space inside. Ended up having to leave belongings outside.

  • @DavWalker-zu6hh
    @DavWalker-zu6hh7 ай бұрын

    Top man....this video really helped me out....my knees have gone through hiking now I'm going kayaking this year psl

  • @TheGrayExplorer
    @TheGrayExplorer6 ай бұрын

    Glad I could help!

  • @georgesurrey1233
    @georgesurrey12337 ай бұрын

    Hi - how you finding this bike for bikepacking?? I looking at either a cameno or Santiago to do the NW500 on this May.

  • @TheGrayExplorer
    @TheGrayExplorer7 ай бұрын

    It’s interesting you mention those two bikes. If you watch my coast to coast series we bike packed in those two bikes!

  • @georgesurrey1233
    @georgesurrey12337 ай бұрын

    @@TheGrayExplorer thanks will check that out. ill hopefully pick one up in a few weeks time. I live in Newcastle myself so may see you out and about in 2024 as I have a few trips planned!!

  • @1stPersonStateConsciousness
    @1stPersonStateConsciousness8 ай бұрын

    Sounds like the perfect tent for me

  • @dudeymcduderson
    @dudeymcduderson8 ай бұрын

    The most aggressive opening of zips I've ever seen. Good video though

  • @adpsimpson
    @adpsimpson9 ай бұрын

    Good video. And good call on backing out of the bad weather. Its not worth the risk - Loch Ness can be lethal. We did the trail in a 17' canoe with our 3 kids, 2 years ago, and lucked out with fantastic weather for it - I have a video of the tripnif youre interested.

  • @TheGrayExplorer
    @TheGrayExplorer9 ай бұрын

    I may have already watched it! Ha!

  • @TheGrayExplorer
    @TheGrayExplorer9 ай бұрын

    I have 😂😂 I watched a lot of videos on this trip before I did it. Yours was particularly memorable. Glad you enjoyed my trip too

  • @stevenewart3873
    @stevenewart38739 ай бұрын

    Love watching your videos mate (I'm a Sunderland lad), but just realised you've changed your handlebars to flats. After cycling for 45 years and only recently switching to drop bars, I dont think I could go back to the dark side 😂

  • @TheGrayExplorer
    @TheGrayExplorer9 ай бұрын

    I tried and tried with the drops, I really did. Just couldn’t get away with them so changed them for flats and for me it’s a dream. I gained a lot more functionality too, the extra space for bags, and clips and widgets. You can even buy a drone holder these days! I’m well happy with the switch

  • @ABCABC-fn4fg
    @ABCABC-fn4fg9 ай бұрын

    Good advice

  • @TheGrayExplorer
    @TheGrayExplorer9 ай бұрын

    Thanks!

  • @ToyoteroMundial
    @ToyoteroMundial10 ай бұрын

    Subscribed. Hope to see many more videos on your channel.

  • @TheGrayExplorer
    @TheGrayExplorer10 ай бұрын

    Thanks for the sub! Hoping to get some out soonish.

  • @kopynd1
    @kopynd110 ай бұрын

    the fishing season finishes long after October depending what your fishing for, theres now a charge to use access at the george hotel, no more freebees gates locked

  • @TheGrayExplorer
    @TheGrayExplorer10 ай бұрын

    Interesting to know thanks!

  • @kopynd1
    @kopynd19 ай бұрын

    yer the new manager has locked the gate a was up there fishing and a was told not to leave the gate open, love to do kayaking but not fit enough mint@@TheGrayExplorer

  • @TheGrayExplorer
    @TheGrayExplorer9 ай бұрын

    @@kopynd1 I’m far far from fit. It’s more endurance than fitness. On a river like this video you could just sit and float tbh and you’d still make your goal.

  • @alanplimley5711
    @alanplimley571111 ай бұрын

    Brilliant, I really want to try this...I have all the gear, including kayak... just no idea😅 so these videos are very helpful

  • @TheGrayExplorer
    @TheGrayExplorer11 ай бұрын

    You can do it!

  • @timporter8886
    @timporter8886 Жыл бұрын

    That was a great post! Had such a relaxed atmosphere to it. What a perfect way to spend a few days on the water. Well done buddy! Looking forward to checking out some of your other posts; hopefully there'll be more little gems like this one! Take care😊

  • @TheGrayExplorer
    @TheGrayExplorer Жыл бұрын

    Glad you enjoyed it. This was one of my first! I’ve grown as a videographer so much since this video, but that was a grand trip

  • @timporter8886
    @timporter8886 Жыл бұрын

    At least you had a crack! It's better than just talking about it, like many of do! Really like your Yak, for it compact dimensions; would like a boat that would fit inside my car; because I hate the whole roof rack malarkey. But seeing how poorly a compact Yak tracked across open water(even with a skeg); I think I'll stick with my longer Dagger approach. I suppose it's horses for coarses, and different boats suit different situations. Was such beautiful scenery, and I love the sound of the water lapping at the side of the boats. Anyway, hope you make another film of you and your buddy completing the journey. Take care buddy😊

  • @TheGrayExplorer
    @TheGrayExplorer Жыл бұрын

    We’ll definitely return for this challenge again. We’ve talked about it a bunch. But I’ve got a big master plan which hopefully I can also stop talking about and actually start

  • @timporter8886
    @timporter8886 Жыл бұрын

    @@TheGrayExplorer which is?🤣

  • @TheGrayExplorer
    @TheGrayExplorer Жыл бұрын

    @@timporter8886 oh now that would be telling ! 😂😂😂

  • @timporter8886
    @timporter8886 Жыл бұрын

    @@TheGrayExplorer Well if you want folk to watch your adventures..you've gotta wet our appetites, surely!? That's why they make trailers for movies; get that anticipation going..haha!🤣

  • @timporter8886
    @timporter8886 Жыл бұрын

    Great post! I walked up the old man of coniston, last summer, and camped next to Low Water. The wind up there nearly blew my tent flat, even in that relatively sheltered spot. Your little adventure looked much colder than mine; though not so windy..haha! Quite surprising that you didnt take a stove, and hav a nice cuppaT on the summit; it's got to be done..haha! Take care buddy, look forward to your next film.😊

  • @TheGrayExplorer
    @TheGrayExplorer Жыл бұрын

    Wind was bitter on this hike, but Loch really enjoyed it

  • @timporter8886
    @timporter8886 Жыл бұрын

    Enjoyed that adventure of yours..Kayaking in beautiful Scotland, Hob nobs, then later; steak on the fire and camping on an island..perfect! On a serious note though, if you were planning to bag a munroe on your trip..what would you do with your Yak? I would never leave mine on the roof rack and go off to do something else! Unless you have a van that is!? Looking forward to watching some more of your adventures. Where do you get the ideas from for your trips, is it stick a pin in a map, curiosity, or recommendations..I'm curious? You seem to end up in some nice places. Take care buddy!😊

  • @TheGrayExplorer
    @TheGrayExplorer Жыл бұрын

    I have a very strong pull toward islands on Loch’s or lakes. Anything accessible only by boat. This one was because of that geographical oddity. But yeah after that throw a pin in a map and crack on. I kinda find something interesting and build on that. Thanks for watching!!

  • @timporter8886
    @timporter8886 Жыл бұрын

    Great post, well done fellas!

  • @TheGrayExplorer
    @TheGrayExplorer Жыл бұрын

    Thanks mate! It was a really good trip this one

  • @timporter8886
    @timporter8886 Жыл бұрын

    @@TheGrayExplorer I've only just come across your channel today. Really enjoyed the post. I have a dagger approach; but due to injuries, I've not used it half as much as I would like to have. What you and your buddy are doing in this post, is the exact reason I bought my "boat". I'm so envious of your adventure, and looking forward to checking out some more; before I get back to the water myself. Take care buddy! 🛶

  • @TheGrayExplorer
    @TheGrayExplorer Жыл бұрын

    @@timporter8886 quite lucky to have Sean to share this stuff with. We’ve been doing more with the bikes recently but I can tell we both want to be back on the water. Hope you get well soon. Take care mate

  • @outsideambition
    @outsideambition Жыл бұрын

    Excellent! Fancy doing it again?

  • @TheGrayExplorer
    @TheGrayExplorer Жыл бұрын

    I’m deleting your number 😂😂

  • @ecmmechaicsuk9535
    @ecmmechaicsuk9535 Жыл бұрын

    Sweeeeeet 👍

  • @TheGrayExplorer
    @TheGrayExplorer Жыл бұрын

    Thank you!

  • @DartyD
    @DartyD Жыл бұрын

    Nice mate 👌

  • @TheGrayExplorer
    @TheGrayExplorer Жыл бұрын

    Thanks ✌

  • @user-kd1du1yp4g
    @user-kd1du1yp4g Жыл бұрын

    Very helpful video. In summer time I found lightweight rain jacket from Patagonia to be really helpful when I need some wind protection.

  • @outsideambition
    @outsideambition Жыл бұрын

    Ah yes! The short day that we thought was going to be a breeze… those downhills were awesome though and definitely worth the effort!

  • @TheGrayExplorer
    @TheGrayExplorer Жыл бұрын

    Definitely the hardest day, but all worth it for day 4

  • @lyonsonaplane
    @lyonsonaplane Жыл бұрын

    Thanks for making a video about a bike and showing the bike for about 4 seconds 😂

  • @TheGrayExplorer
    @TheGrayExplorer Жыл бұрын

    If you didn't like that, you might like a video coming soon then......