Uinta Triangle: Episode - Robinson’s Rest

Release Date: July 8, 2025
Host: Dave Cawley (Lemonada Media)
Production: KSL Podcasts
Sales and Distribution: Lemonada Media

Introduction

"Robinson’s Rest," the finale episode of the Uinta Triangle series, delves deep into the heart-wrenching journey of Marilyn Robinson as she retraces the final steps of her missing husband, Eric Robinson, an avid Australian trekker who vanished in the treacherous Uinta Mountains five years prior. Hosted by Dave Cawley, a seasoned journalist known for his true crime series COLD, this episode captures the emotional and physical odyssey undertaken by Marilyn, Dave, and their companions in search of closure and understanding.

Setting Out: A Journey of Healing [01:17 - 07:20]

The episode opens with Dave Cawley completing his own hike on the Uinta Highline Trail in August 2023, meticulously recreating every photograph taken by Eric during his final trek. This personal homage soon evolves into a larger quest for Marilyn Robinson, Eric’s widow, who seeks answers about her husband's untimely disappearance.

Dave Cawley shares his initial plan:

“I had plotted out this series to run eight episodes, and I figured I had everything I needed to do that. But as I sat down to write, I found myself wrestling with a new question. What was this story really about?” ([01:53])

Realizing the narrative required a deeper exploration of Marilyn's emotional landscape, Dave flights to Australia to join her, marking the true beginning of their shared journey.

Marilyn Robinson expresses her motivation:

“It’s a story of a missing person, but it’s also a legacy to that person for the love of what they did.” ([03:15])

Personal Connections and Preparations [02:47 - 07:20]

Upon meeting Marilyn in Heathmont, Dave and Marilyn reminisce about the numerous hikes and adventures they shared. Marilyn’s home becomes a repository of memories, symbolized by Eric's old hiking boots adorned with succulents—a poignant testament to her enduring love and loss.

Marilyn on her experience:

“I have loved this week. In many ways, it has evoked a lot of memories. It was tough. In a couple of times, I throw my hands up and say, I can’t do this.” ([03:48])

Their bond strengthens as they navigate through Marilyn's memories, leading to an emotional visit to Mackenzie Falls—a significant site where Marilyn had previously spread part of Eric's ashes.

Revitalizing Passion: Embracing Adventure [07:20 - 09:00]

Marilyn reveals her transformation since Eric's disappearance. From resisting Eric’s adventurous spirit to embracing it in his honor, she shares her renewed zest for life and exploration.

Marilyn on reclaiming her adventurous spirit:

“I have gained the confidence and refound my mojo to get out there and to travel independently as a single woman in honor of Eric.” ([08:18])

Her adventures include a memorable hike up Mount Kinabalu in Malaysia with her daughter, demonstrating her resilience and dedication to keeping Eric’s memory alive through shared experiences.

Returning to Utah: Gathering the Team [13:16 - 27:06]

In a pivotal moment, Marilyn decides to return to Utah—the very place where Eric disappeared—after twelve years. Accompanied by Dave, she meets Mark Judd and his family, who were instrumental in the initial discovery of Eric's remains in 2016.

Marilyn’s poignant reflection:

“The 21st was the last time I held Eric, the last time I felt his warm and tender touch and we said goodbye.” ([14:01])

The group prepares for the arduous trek to Allsop Lake, where Eric was found, underlining the physical challenges posed by Utah’s intense summer heat and rugged terrain.

The Trek Begins: Trials in the Wilderness [27:06 - 43:06]

The team embarks on their journey through the Uinta Mountains, facing extreme heat, difficult trails, and emotional strain. Marilyn's determination is tested as they navigate through burnt areas affected by past wildfires and confront the stark reality of changing landscapes due to climate impact.

Marilyn’s resolve:

“Never fear. Onward and upward, one foot in front of the other.” ([18:11])

Their hike includes iconic locations like Bryce Canyon and Zion National Park, where Marilyn pushes her physical limits, inspired by Eric’s adventurous spirit.

Reaching Allsop Lake: A Place of Memory [43:06 - 61:39]

After days of trekking, the team reaches Allsop Lake, the resting place of Eric Robinson. Here, they engage in meaningful rituals, such as hanging flags to honor Eric and sharing personal stories that humanize his memory beyond his disappearance.

Marilyn’s emotional declaration:

“This storytelling has been my grieving, my catharsis for what happened 13 years ago.” ([64:36])

They explore the site, uncovering symbolic elements like a forgotten rope that may have played a role in Eric’s accident, and reflect on the unpredictable forces of nature that contributed to his demise.

Closure and Reflection: Finding Peace [61:36 - 69:08]

In the serene environment of Allsop Lake, Marilyn finds the closure she desperately sought. Surrounded by wildflowers and the majestic peaks that now frame Eric's final resting place, she reconciles with the past, embracing both joy and sorrow.

Marilyn's final thoughts:

“It is a very emotional. It hit me that I had made it. I had got this far. Something that I didn’t think I would ever do.” ([33:57])

The journey concludes with a heartfelt farewell to Eric, symbolizing Marilyn’s acceptance and newfound peace.

Marilyn on moving forward:

“You don’t put things off. You make the most of every day, and you make the most of every person that you meet.” ([66:25])

Conclusion: The Power of Shared Stories [69:08 - End]

Dave Cawley reflects on the profound experiences shared on this trek, highlighting Marilyn’s incredible strength and the deep human connections forged through their shared pilgrimage.

Dave’s final remarks:

“Remember, wherever your life's trail takes you. None of us ever truly walk alone.” ([71:17])

The episode underscores the significance of companionship, resilience, and the enduring power of love and memory in overcoming loss.

Notable Quotes

• Marilyn Robinson:
  “This storytelling has been my grieving, my catharsis for what happened 13 years ago.” ([64:36])

• Dave Cawley:
  “I started this journey as the solo hiker, a guy who understood Eric's desire to spend time in the wilderness alone. I thought following his footsteps alone would reveal some hidden truth. But only by sharing the trail with someone else did I learn the true meaning of the story.” ([67:28])

• Marilyn Robinson:
  “You don’t put things off. You make the most of every day, and you make the most of every person that you meet.” ([66:25])

Final Thoughts

"Robinson’s Rest" serves as a powerful narrative of love, loss, and the healing journey through nature. It not only chronicles the physical trek across demanding terrains but also delves into the emotional landscapes navigated by those left behind. Through immersive storytelling and authentic conversations, the episode offers listeners a profound exploration of human resilience and the enduring bonds that define us.

For the best listening experience, the podcast includes immersive field recordings from real outdoor locations, enhancing the authenticity and emotional depth of the narrative.

Connect with Uinta Triangle:

• Website: uintatriangle.com
• Social Media: @uintatriangle
• Exclusive Content: Subscribe to Lemonada Premium for bonus episodes.

Produced by:
Andrea Smarden (Lead Producer and Sound Designer)
Ben Kiebrick and Jenny Ament (Contributing Producers)
Alison Layton Brown (Main Score and Original Music)

Special Thanks to: Aaron Mason, Amy Donaldson, Felix Bunnell, Josh Tilton, Kellyanne Halvorson, Nina Ernest, Ryan Meeks, and Trent Sell from the KSL Podcasts team.

Remember: Wherever your life's trail takes you, you're never truly alone.