Uinta Triangle – Episode: Dead Reckoning
Released June 17, 2025 | Host: Dave Cawley | Produced by KSL Podcasts and Lemonada Media
Introduction
"Uinta Triangle," produced by KSL Podcasts and distributed by Lemonada Media, is an immersive true crime and adventure series that delves into the mysterious disappearance of Australian trekker Eric Robinson. The episode "Dead Reckoning" meticulously chronicles the exhaustive search efforts led by host Dave Cawley and Eric’s wife, Marilyn Kulstra, as they navigate the daunting Uinta Mountains in hopes of uncovering answers about Eric's fate.
The Disappearance and Initial Search Efforts
On August 15, 2011, Eric Robinson, an avid trekker, vanished while hiking the Uintah Highline Trail, a remote and challenging mountain range notorious for swallowing hikers. The initial search commenced immediately but soon stretched into a second week without any leads, heightening fears and desperation among his loved ones.
Notable Quote:
Marilyn Kulstra (03:17): “Rachel came with her hiking boots and her hiking gear. She was equipped and ready to go out there and search for her stepfather, more her close friend than stepfather.”
Joining the Search: Art Lang’s Contribution
Art Lang, a seasoned backpacker and mountaineer, arrived at the Duchesne County makeshift search command post at Moon Lake (02:04). Having completed the Uinta Highline Trail a week behind Eric, Art's expertise became invaluable. He identified the "navigation crux," a particularly treacherous section of the trail that posed significant challenges for searchers (09:45).
Notable Quote:
Art Lang (09:45): “The navigation crux is this place, this Oweep in the Lambert Meadows area.”
Family’s Struggle and Tension with Authorities
Marilyn Kulstra and her daughter Rachel Marsden faced significant hurdles in being included in the official search operations. The Duchesne County Sheriff's Office maintained a distance, leading to feelings of frustration and exclusion (02:47). Despite their eagerness to contribute, the authorities were reluctant to integrate them into the search teams.
Notable Quote:
Rachel Marsden (04:48): “I think I made it known that I felt that I could do that and I was willing to do that if they thought it was helpful.”
Challenges and Conflicts in the Search
Art Lang's proposal to focus search efforts on the navigation crux prompted a strategic shift. His deep understanding of the terrain helped the official search teams concentrate their efforts more effectively (10:15). However, tensions arose when Art sought to undertake a solo search mission, challenging established safety protocols (12:00).
Notable Quote:
Art Lang (13:03): “I'm here to actually go search. So I want you to fly me up into this navigation crux and I'm going to go looking for this guy.”
Desperation and Personal Risk: Rachel’s Attempt
Compelled by desperation, Rachel Marsden insisted on joining the search despite lacking extensive preparation. Paired with a volunteer named Charlie, Rachel embarked on a physically and emotionally taxing hike through rugged terrain (17:37). This decision underscored the family's relentless pursuit of hope amidst despair.
Notable Quote:
Rachel Marsden (18:25): “I could not have been less prepared.”
Emotional and Psychological Toll
As days progressed without breakthroughs, Marilyn and Rachel grappled with diminishing hope and the looming possibility of Eric’s death. The practicalities of search and rescue—costs, risks, and statistical probabilities—began to weigh heavily on them (06:20).
Notable Quote:
Marilyn Kulstra (08:00): “How hard can it be to find somebody out there?”
Art Lang’s Solo Expedition and Subsequent Rescue
Art Lang’s insistence on a solo search led to his isolated expedition deep into the mountains (14:54). Despite his determination, Art’s search proved fruitless over three days, culminating in his arduous return journey where he narrowly avoided exhaustion and dehydration (51:33).
Notable Quote:
Art Lang (55:04): “I was glad to have done my part and felt somewhat satisfied or rewarded in that respect.”
Finalizing the Search and Accepting Loss
By August 17, 2011, after extensive efforts and no viable leads, Marilyn and Rachel accepted that Eric might never be found. They commemorated him by building a cairn in an alpine meadow, symbolizing their heartfelt farewell and eternal bond (63:14).
Notable Quote:
Rachel Marsden (59:46): “We've done our best to try and find you, but we can't do anymore.”
Conclusion and Reflections
"Dead Reckoning" encapsulates the profound emotional journey of a family and community in the face of loss and uncertainty. It underscores the relentless human spirit to seek answers, the harsh realities of wilderness searches, and the enduring love that binds individuals together even amidst tragedy.
Key Themes:
- Isolation and Wilderness: The Uinta Mountains present both a haven for nature lovers and a perilous landscape for hikers.
- Human Resilience: Marilyn and Rachel’s unwavering commitment highlights the lengths individuals will go to for loved ones.
- Community Involvement: Art Lang and the volunteers’ dedication demonstrate the collective effort in rescue missions.
- Emotional Struggle: The psychological impact of prolonged searches and the heavy burden of hope and acceptance.
Notable Quotes Recap:
- Art Lang (09:45): “The navigation crux is this place, this Oweep in the Lambert Meadows area.”
- Rachel Marsden (04:48): “I think I made it known that I felt that I could do that and I was willing to do that if they thought it was helpful.”
- Art Lang (13:03): “I'm here to actually go search. So I want you to fly me up into this navigation crux and I'm going to go looking for this guy.”
- Rachel Marsden (18:25): “I could not have been less prepared.”
- Marilyn Kulstra (08:00): “How hard can it be to find somebody out there?”
- Art Lang (55:04): “I was glad to have done my part and felt somewhat satisfied or rewarded in that respect.”
- Rachel Marsden (59:46): “We've done our best to try and find you, but we can't do anymore.”
Final Thoughts
"Dead Reckoning" delivers a poignant narrative that not only explores the practical aspects of search and rescue missions but also delves deeply into the emotional and psychological landscapes navigated by families and volunteers during such crises. Through detailed storytelling and firsthand accounts, the episode offers listeners a comprehensive and empathetic understanding of Eric Robinson’s disappearance and the enduring quest for closure by those he left behind.
For more insights and to immerse yourself further, visit uintatriangle.com and consider subscribing to Lemonada Premium for exclusive content.