The Backpacking Podcast presented by Outdoor Vitals

Outdoor Vitals Tern Merino Wool Hoodie & Tee: https://alnk.to/bEmXZ6e

In this episode, we sit down with retired park ranger Kristy Slaven to hear some of the strangest, funniest, and most unbelievable experiences from her time working in and around the great outdoors.

From bizarre encounters with people in the wilderness to mysterious situations and stories that sound almost too strange to be true, Kristy shares what life was really like as a park ranger. If you've ever wondered what park rangers actually deal with, what can happen in the woods, or what kinds of strange people and situations they encounter, you're going to enjoy this conversation.

In this episode:

🏞️ What life is really like as a park ranger
🌲 Strange encounters in the wilderness
😳 The story of the naked man
❓ The mystery surrounding a missing nun
🚨 Unusual situations park rangers have to handle
🥾 Life, work, and adventure in the outdoors
😂 Funny, bizarre, and unforgettable stories from the field

What is the strangest thing you've ever experienced in a park or out in the wilderness? Let us know in the comments!

00:00 - A Naked Man & a Missing Nun
01:35 - Meet Retired Park Ranger Kristi Slaven
05:10 - What Does a Park Ranger Actually Do?
10:02 - Life Working in the Parks
15:18 - The People You Meet in the Wilderness
20:36 - The Naked Man Story
27:42 - Strange Things Park Rangers Deal With
33:48 - The Missing Nun Mystery
41:10 - Unforgettable Stories From the Job
47:35 - What It's Really Like Working Outdoors
53:20 - The Funniest & Craziest Moments
58:05 - Final Thoughts

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💬 Share your craziest outdoor story in the comments
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#ParkRanger #ParkRangerStories #MissingPerson #WildernessStories #OutdoorStories

What if the thing you thought was just a legend actually changed the way you look at the wilderness?In this episode, we dive deep into Bigfoot, strange encounters, backpacking, camping, the wilderness, and the unsettling stories that make you question what might really be out there. What starts as a conversation about Bigfoot quickly becomes a fascinating look at the experiences, evidence, and questions surrounding one of the most famous mysteries in the world.Joining the conversation is Michael Kirkpatrick (MK Ultra) as we talk about Bigfoot sightings, unexplained encounters, what people have experienced in the woods, and why the subject continues to fascinate—and frighten—so many people.Whether you're a Bigfoot believer, skeptic, backpacker, hunter, outdoorsman, paranormal enthusiast, or simply curious about unexplained phenomena, there's plenty here to make you think.⚠️ After this conversation, you might never look at a dark trail or campsite the same way again.Michael's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4UBmF8IUlXjKXBvIL10Sgg

Tushar Rain Jacket from Outdoor Vitals: https://alnk.to/3U5xxk6
John Kelley and Jeremiah Stringer go live for a wide-ranging backpacking hangout packed with trail talk, gear opinions, and chat-driven detours. They compare trusted weather sources, weigh the changing role of satellite messaging, and put new gear through a round of “Backpack or Send It Back”—including Yeti’s active packs, a high-powered Petzl headlamp, and HydroPak’s updated filter cap.The conversation also covers Garmin subscription changes, favorite trail meals, fast-food fries and chicken sandwiches, plus a preview of what’s ahead for the Backpacking Podcast’s upcoming season refresh.

In this episode, Jeremiah Stringer and JK discuss bear activity updates along the Appalachian Trail, creative and humorous bear deterrent ideas, and share personal stories about neighbors, HOA regulations, and hiking injuries. They also send heartfelt prayers to Danny Warnock after his son's passing.

Let's Hit The Trail YT https://www.youtube.com/@JustinAndAnna

key topics

Trail partnership secrets: communication and honesty
Wildlife encounters: bears, sheep, and more
Trail mishaps: poops, gear, and surprises
Long-distance hiking: PCT, Wonderland Trail, Santa Fe to Taos
Trail gear and camping setups for comfort and safety

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Justin and his trail adventures
01:58 Justin's recent hikes: Santa Fe to Taos and PCT
03:56 Secrets to successful trail partnerships
05:58 The story of losing each other on the trail
07:53 Wildlife encounters: bears, sheep, and deer
12:14 Trail mishaps: poop stories and gear mishaps
16:02 Sharing gear and sleeping setups
20:03 Trail conditions and best times to hike
24:11 Dealing with cold, drafts, and gear choices
28:04 Trail food, water treatment, and safety tips
32:07 Reflections on solo vs. partner hiking
35:54 The beauty of wilderness and wildlife experiences
39:56 Humorous trail stories and lessons learned
43:54 Justin’s online presence and future plans