National Park After Dark Episode 284: Trail Tales 65 Release Date: February 27, 2025
Hosts: Danielle and Cassie
Produced by: Audioboom Studios
Introduction
In Episode 284 of National Park After Dark, titled "Trail Tales 65," hosts Danielle and Cassie delve into a series of captivating listener-submitted stories. These tales traverse a spectrum of outdoor adventures, unexpected encounters, and profound moments of survival, each weaving a unique narrative that both chills and inspires. This summary encapsulates the essence of each story, highlighting key discussions, insights, and memorable quotes.
Story 1: Signs from a Dumpster
Speaker: Danielle
Timestamp: [02:13 - 05:43]
Summary: Danielle shares a deeply personal story titled "Signs from a Dumpster," recounting the supernatural signs she believes were sent by her late friend, Derek. Following Derek's passing, Danielle experienced a dream where he communicated from heaven, signifying his presence through natural elements like lemons. Over the years, she noticed recurring signs associated with lemons that reaffirmed her connection to Derek during challenging times, including a poignant moment during her pregnancy loss.
Notable Quotes:
- Danielle: "He now existed as the wind in the trees... someone named lemon let him visit earth every Wednesday to check in on everyone" [02:50].
- Danielle: "It's crazy to think it served as a sign twice for two complete strangers" [04:30].
Discussion: Danielle's narrative emphasizes the comfort and hope that signs from loved ones can provide during dark times. The convergence of personal tragedy and the mystical elements of her story underscores the show's theme of exploring the hidden, often darker facets of national parks and personal experiences.
Story 2: A Hippo in the Night
Speaker: Terri
Timestamp: [08:30 - 19:02]
Summary: Terri recounts her harrowing experience during a Peace Corps service trip in Kenya. After a challenging hike up Mount Kenya, faced with wildlife dangers, her group encounters a massive hippo that steps onto their tent, resulting in injuries and a tense night. The encounter underscores the unpredictability and inherent dangers of the wilderness, even amidst planned adventures.
Notable Quotes:
- Cassie: "It's better to be hurt by a hippo accidentally than having a hippo hurt you intentionally" [18:59].
- Danielle: "I just want to take pictures of the moon in the middle of the night and she's like he was short, unimpressive... awkward kiss" [43:45].
Discussion: The story highlights the fine line between adventure and survival in the wild. Cassie's reflection on respecting wildlife and the dangers they pose reinforces the show's exploration of the wilderness's darker side.
Story 3: My Brother Saved Us with Science
Speaker: Anonymous Listener
Timestamp: [20:59 - 28:02]
Summary: An anonymous listener narrates a snowstorm ordeal during a ski trip in Colorado. Stranded in a slippery slush-covered road, the protagonist and their brother grapple with their stuck vehicle. Demonstrating quick thinking, the brother uses diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) to melt the surrounding snow, creating traction and allowing them to escape the perilous situation. This story underscores the importance of preparedness and ingenuity in survival scenarios.
Notable Quotes:
- Listener: "I was so relieved to not be spending the night on the side of the road praying we didn't get hit by another vehicle" [27:15].
- Listener: "I aspire to the level of calm that my brother had in that situation" [28:02].
Discussion: The narrative celebrates sibling solidarity and the application of practical knowledge in life-threatening situations. It aligns with the podcast's mission to inspire listeners to be prepared and resilient in the face of wilderness challenges.
Story 4: Lights Mouse Scream
Speaker: Cassie
Timestamp: [37:34 - 40:24]
Summary: Cassie shares her experience backpacking in Olympic National Park, where she and her friends encounter eerie noises near their tent. Initially suspecting a mouse or worse, the sounds culminate in a realization that the mysterious noises were coinciding with the fleeting presence of the Northern Lights. The story juxtaposes the thrill of the unknown with the serene beauty of nature's phenomena.
Notable Quotes:
- Cassie: "I hear a scream in the distance. Could the mouse have made it that far already?" [37:17].
- Danielle: "I still have yet to see a full light display like how you see it in the pictures" [39:20].
Discussion: This tale intertwines the psychological tension of unexplained sounds with the awe-inspiring sight of the Northern Lights, emphasizing the multifaceted experiences one can encounter in national parks. The hosts discuss their personal encounters with the auroras, adding depth to the narrative.
Story 5: Bryce Canyon After Dark
Speaker: Danielle
Timestamp: [43:10 - 45:57]
Summary: Danielle recounts a solo road trip to Bryce Canyon, Utah, where she matches with an amateur photographer named Scott for a moonlit hike. While the evening begins with scenic exploration, it takes an unexpected turn when Scott's awkward behavior leads to an uncomfortable situation. The story combines the allure of solo adventures with the unpredictability of meeting strangers in the wilderness.
Notable Quotes:
- Danielle: "I just want to take pictures of the moon in the middle of the night and she's like he was short, unimpressive... awkward kiss" [43:45].
- Cassie: "He's just trying to have a good time" [45:24].
Discussion: The narrative explores the complexities of human interactions in isolated settings, highlighting both the beauty and potential discomforts of solo adventures. It serves as a cautionary tale about the unpredictability of encounters in the wilderness.
Story 6: From Dad to Hero
Speaker: Gabe
Timestamp: [48:02 - 52:26]
Summary: Gabe shares an inspiring account of his father's heroic actions during a Boy Scout trip in the Great Smoky Mountains. When a young boy falls into a waterfall, Gabe's father leaps into action, risking his own safety to save the child from the strong currents. This poignant story celebrates heroism, parental influence, and the profound impact of witnessing real-life bravery.
Notable Quotes:
- Gabe: "Most kids don't save someone's life from that day until the day I die my dad will always be my hero" [50:06].
- Cassie: "He did that yeah so dads sometimes... we love dads" [51:59].
Discussion: This heartfelt story underscores the theme of heroism inherent in the wilderness and the lasting influence of parental figures. The hosts reflect on similar experiences with their own fathers, emphasizing the universal admiration for heroic acts.
Bonus Stories and Closing Remarks
Speakers: Danielle and Cassie
Timestamp: [52:34 - 53:16]
Summary: In the closing segment, Danielle and Cassie introduce bonus stories from their listener community, hinting at more thrilling and mysterious tales. They encourage listeners to share their own experiences and remind them of the podcast's platforms for engagement and further content.
Notable Quotes:
- Cassie: "If you have a trail tale of your own you'd like to share you can write to us at npadstoriesmail dot com" [53:12].
- Danielle: "Enjoy the view but watch your back" [53:12].
Conclusion: The episode concludes with a reminder for listeners to rate, review, and subscribe, reinforcing the community-driven spirit of National Park After Dark.
Conclusion
Episode 284: Trail Tales 65 of National Park After Dark offers a rich tapestry of listener stories that embody the show's dedication to unveiling the lesser-known, often intense aspects of outdoor adventures. Through personal anecdotes of survival, supernatural signs, and heroic acts, Danielle and Cassie continue to inspire and entertain their audience, encouraging a deeper appreciation and respect for the wilderness.
Connect with National Park After Dark:
- Email: npadstories@mail.com
- Website: npadpodcast.com
- Social Media: Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, X (@nationalparkafterdark)
- YouTube: National Park After Dark
- Bonus Content: Available to Patreon members and Apple subscribers
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