The Dark Divide - Dr. Robert Michael Pyle (Part II)
In this episode, conservationist, author, and expert lepidopterist Dr. Robert Michael Pyle discusses his journey into the world of butterfly and Bigfoot conservation, and the inspiration behind his book 'Where Bigfoot Walks: Crossing the Dark Divide'. The discussion touches on his explorations in the Dark Divide, the myth and reality of Bigfoot, and the broader impacts of his work. Pyle also delves into the transformation of his book into the film 'The Dark Divide' and shares insights on his current literary projects. The conversation ends with Pyle offering a unique 'hiking hack' and discussing the role of poetry in his life.
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The Dark Divide - Dr. Robert Michael Pyle (Part I)
In this episode of Hiker Trash Radio, host Doc welcomes Dr. Robert Michael Pyle, an author of 30 books on science, natural history, poetry, and fiction. Pyle shares his experiences from his extensive hiking and naturalist background, including a perilous hike in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest and his time as a ranger in Sequoia National Park. They discuss Pyle's favorite piece of hiking gear, his early life and influences, and his significant work in butterfly ecology. The episode highlights Pyle's adventurous spirit, conservation efforts, and his intriguing stories about the Dark Divide and Bigfoot.
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Trail Talk with Rocket and Stump - What is the Most Dangerous Trail in North America?
Join Rocket and Stump on this episode of Trail Talk as they tackle a thrilling, and sometimes chilling, question: What is the most dangerous trail over 400 miles in America?
Episode Highlights:
Defining "Dangerous": Rocket and Stump kick off the discussion by dissecting what "dangerous" truly means on the trail. Is it about sheer cliffs and grizzly bears, or are more subtle threats like extreme remoteness, unpredictable weather, and even human error the real culprits?
Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) Snow Concerns: Stump shares her personal experiences with treacherous snow traverses in the Sierra Nevada mountains on the PCT, highlighting the need for specialized skills like self-arresting with an ice axe.
Appalachian Trail (AT) Weather Woes: Rocket recounts a harrowing late-season ice storm on the AT in Tennessee, emphasizing how rapidly weather can change and lead to hypothermia even on seemingly "easier" trails.
Lightning Strikes: The hosts discuss the often-overlooked danger of lightning, particularly on high-elevation trails in the Rockies, citing CDC data on lightning-related incidents in Colorado.
Contenders for "Most Dangerous":
Pacific Northwest Trail (PNT): Stump champions the PNT, emphasizing its untamed wilderness, challenging navigation, dense bear habitat (94% of the trail corridor!), and unique coastal tidal considerations that can strand hikers.
Continental Divide Trail (CDT): Rocket makes a strong case for the CDT, detailing its extreme remoteness, unpredictable high-alpine weather, vast stretches between resupply points, and significant grizzly and black bear presence across its 3,100+ miles. He shares a personal anecdote about a sudden blizzard in Wyoming and a reported broken leg due to blowdowns in the Bob Marshall Wilderness.
Arizona Trail (AZT): The discussion touches on the specific dangers of the AZT, including extreme desert heat, venomous wildlife like rattlesnakes, and the sudden, destructive power of flash floods in narrow canyons.
Mitigating Risks: Both hosts stress that preparedness is key. They discuss the importance of carrying the Ten Essentials, knowing how to use your gear, diligently checking weather forecasts, and honestly assessing your own skill level to make safe decisions on the trail.
The Verdict (and Your Input!): Rocket and Stump ultimately conclude that the Continental Divide Trail likely holds the title for the most dangerous trail over 400 miles in America due to its comprehensive range of extreme challenges. They invite listeners to share their own opinions and dangerous trail stories by contacting Doc at Hiker Trash Radio via their website.
Do you agree with Rocket and Stump's take on the most dangerous trail? Have you had a close call on a long-distance trail? We want to hear from you! Send your comments and stories to Doc at Hiker Trash Radio via the contact page on their website.
Subscribe to Hiker Trash Radio for more outdoor adventure content!
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The Last 10 - Dr. Robert Michael Pyle
In this bonus episode of Hiker Trash Radio, host Doc engages with Dr. Robert Michael Pyle, a writer, naturalist, and Bigfoot enthusiast. Pyle shares insights on his most recent adventures, his eclectic music tastes, his favorite books, and the advice he offers to young naturalists. He also talks about his surprise discoveries and humorous anecdotes, providing a snapshot of his life and interests. Tune in to learn more about what keeps this nature-loving scholar ticking and to hear stories from his fascinating life.
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Classic Doc: The True North Project - Deon "Sid" Barrett
Deon "Sid" Barrett joins Doc in the studio to talk about The True North Project, which, if successful, will result in him doing what just a handful of Black adventurers have done: Â standing atop Mount Everest. Â During the convo, the two cover the Green Stuff, the difficulties associated with growing up in the Machine, the efforts of Beyond Six and 5Twenty, and the inspiration behind supporting and inspiring others. Â An epic episode with an epic guest.
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Join Doc and his guests on Hiker Trash Radio, the outdoor adventure podcast that takes you on a myriad of trails. With interviews from thru hikers, skydivers, adventure athletes, big wall climbers, and more, each episode is packed with trail talk, gear tips, and hilarious misadventures. And if you thought the great outdoors was all sunshine and rainbows, think again! Tune in for tales of blistered feet, helicopter evacuations, and Type II Fun that will make you appreciate the comforts of home. Settle in and get ready to trade the city for the wilderness. It's time to embrace the suck!
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