Locations Unknown
Welcome to Locations Unknown, a podcast that dives into the mysteries of America's wilderness. Join hosts Mike & Joe as they explore the stories of those who have vanished without a trace in some of the country's most remote and treacherous landscapes. In each episode, we uncover the details of these disappearances, examine the investigations that followed, and discuss theories about what might have happened. From national parks to remote deserts, our journey takes you to the heart of the unknown, shedding light on the eerie and unexplainable. Tune in and discover that, sometimes, the wilderness holds more than just beauty—it...
From the Vault - Glacier National Park Cold Cases
While we're away getting our new studio up and running, please enjoy one of our favorite episodes on Glacier National Park Cold Cases, complegte with newly edited audio to make your listening experience even better. Side note, this was the last episode before we moved into our old studio! (Originally aired 3/23/2023)
With over 52 million acres, the US National Park system is home to some of the most breathtaking natural features on the planet. Tens of millions enjoy these parks every year. Join us this week for an installment of, “National Park Cold Cases” as we explore Glacier National Park. ...
Robert Schock - North Cascades National Park - Washington
July 31 2024, a 39-year-old ultrarunner vanished in the rugged North Cascades National Park during a 20-mile trail run. Minimally equipped, he became disoriented on wildfire-altered trails, surviving 30 days on berries and river water. Despite extensive searches by sheriff’s deputies, park rangers, and a helicopter, the park’s dense forests and remote terrain hid him. A trail crew’s chance discovery saved his life as he lay emaciated on a riverbank. Join us this week as we learn about the incredible survival story of Robert Schock.
SHOW NOTE - We're off for the next month as we move into our new...
Aubrey Sacco - Langtang National Park - Nepal
April 2010, a young American backpacker set out alone on a trek through Nepal’s scenic Langtang Valley. She was last seen confidently hiking along a popular trail but then vanished without a trace. Despite exhaustive searches, not a single piece of evidence emerged. This disappearance remains one of Nepal’s most puzzling mysteries, leaving her family still searching for answers more than a decade later. Was it a tragic accident, or did she fall victim to something darker? Join us this week as we investigate the case of Aubrey Sacco.
(00:00) Introduction
(03:07) Episode Summary
(04:04) Location Profile
(12:59) Magic...
Joseph Wood Jr - Mount Rainier National Park - Washington
In July 1999, a 34-year-old book editor from New York set out for a day hike near Comet Falls in Mount Rainier National Park. Despite clear skies, he left the main trail and entered rugged, snow-covered terrain. When he never returned, an extensive search turned up nothing—no gear, no footprints, no clues. Join us this week as we investigate the disappearance of Joseph “Joe” Lee Wood Jr.
Learn more about Locations Unknown: https://linktr.ee/LocationsUnknown
Check out our other shows on the Unknown Media Network:
Crime Off The Grid
Off The Tra...
Jacob Gray - Olympic National Park - Washington
April 6th, 2017, a lone cyclist sets out into Washington’s Olympic wilderness, towing a trailer packed with camping gear and determination. Days later, park rangers found the bike and gear abandoned on a remote road, but no sign of the traveler. What follows is a baffling series of search efforts, false leads, and clues scattered across one of the most rugged national parks in the country. With unpredictable weather, dense forests, and towering mountains, this is a landscape that doesn’t give up its secrets easily. Join us this week as we investigate the mysterious disappearance of Jacob Gray.
King Arthur: In Search of the Lost King
It’s the 6th century, Britain’s a chaotic mess—Roman rule’s gone, Saxons are invading, and a warrior king fights his last battle. Then, poof—he’s gone, whisked away to a mysterious place called Avalon, never to be seen again. Did this King really vanish into the wilderness, or is his whole story just a legend?” Join us this week as we investigate the strange disappearance of King Arthur, Camelot, and the Holy Grail.
Learn more about Locations Unknown: https://linktr.ee/LocationsUnknown
Check out our other shows on the Unknown Media Network:
Crime Off Th...
Park Rangers Unplugged: Tasers, Trails, and True Crime
Join us this week for a great conversation with Tara and Nancy, retired Yellowstone National Park law enforcement Rangers and hosts of Crime Off the Grid. They share unforgettable experiences from their careers, from intense encounters involving tasers and unexpected rodeo moves to heartfelt moments helping park visitors in distress. We dive into the realities of being law enforcement in America’s wild places, debunk persistent conspiracy theories, and learn what "WWND—What Would Nancy Do?" really means in high-pressure wilderness scenarios. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast or fascinated by true crime in the backcountry, you won't want to miss this...
Checking in w/ Danielle & Cassie from National Park After Dark
On April 23rd, 2025, we hosted a nearly five-hour livestream to celebrate our current studio, which we'll be leaving later this spring due to upcoming building renovations. During the event, we interviewed Danielle and Cassie from National Park After Dark. Our conversation covered their recent adventure in Antarctica, their new show Watch Her Cook, some of their most chilling hiking experiences, and a few memorable, funny moments. We hope you enjoy the interview!
Note: The pre and post interview segments were greatly edited down to focus this episode on the interview. You view the full unedited livestream by following t...
Larry Conn - Kings Canyon National Park - California
In October 2012, an experienced hiker vanished amid an early-season snowstorm near California's remote Taboose Pass. Despite extensive search efforts hindered by brutal terrain, freezing temperatures, and blinding whiteouts, rescuers found no trace. Months later, melting snow exposed startling clues, raising even deeper questions about what truly occurred near the alpine summit. With clear evidence of frantic emergency calls and an abandoned tent, the mystery deepens: Was it hypothermia, altitude sickness, or something more sinister? Join us as we explore the disappearance of Larry Conn in Kings Canyon National Park.
Mark your calendars! We have a special multi hour li...
Bryce Gillies - Grand Canyon National Park - Arizona
July 18 2009, a seasoned backpacker set off alone into the rugged wilderness of Arizona’s Grand Canyon National Park. Facing scorching heat, limited water, and treacherous terrain, he soon found himself trapped in a remote canyon far from his intended path. As days passed, searchers raced against time and the harsh environment, uncovering clues that painted a chilling picture of how quickly nature can overpower even the most experienced adventurer. Join us this week as we investigate the tragic story of Bryce Gillies.
Mark your calendars! We have a special multi hour live stream coming up on the evening of...
Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park Cold Cases
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park draws millions each year, captivated by its stunning beauty and volcanic wonders. But beneath its dramatic landscapes lie stories of visitors who've gone missing without a trace. This week, we explore cold cases within the park, examining the risks hidden along its rugged trails, active lava flows, and unpredictable coastlines. Join us as we uncover the real dangers of this popular destination—and consider what might have happened to those who ventured out and never returned.
Mark your calendars! We have a special multi hour live stream coming up on the evening of 4/23/25. Stay tune...
Thelma Polly Melton - Great Smoky Mountains National Park
On September 25, 1981, a 58-year-old woman mysteriously vanished while hiking a familiar Trail in the Great Smoky Mountains. Moments after walking ahead of her friends, she disappeared without a trace. Strange behaviors leading up to that day—including unusual phone calls and missed commitments—only deepened the mystery. Despite exhaustive searches, her fate remains unknown. Was she lost, abducted, or did she deliberately disappear? Join us this week as we investigate the disappearance of Thelma Polly Melton in Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Mark your calendars! We have a special multi hour live stream coming up on the evening of 4...
Lost in Yosemite - The Disappearance of Joel Thomazin
In September 2021, an experienced outdoorsman, vanished mysteriously during a solo hike in Yosemite's rugged Hetch Hetchy wilderness. Last seen above O’Shaughnessy Dam, he intended to fish at remote Lake Eleanor. Despite massive searches, no trace was ever found—not even his bright red kayak. Did he fall victim to hidden waters, dense wilderness, or something else entirely? Join us this week as we investigate the disappearance of Joel Thomazin.
Mark your calendars! We have a special multi hour live stream coming up on the evening of 4/23/25. Stay tuned for more details!
Learn more about Locations Unknow...
Lost Hunter: Ronald Gray's disappearance in Idaho's Bitterroot Wilderness
On September 19, 2008, Ronald Scott Gray, a seasoned 62-year-old retired Marine and Massachusetts State Police captain, vanished during an elk hunt in Idaho’s rugged Selway-Bitterroot wilderness. Despite extensive survival training, he disappeared without a trace. His backpack, found near Highline Lake, provided no definitive clues. Unusual behavior noted by companions hinted at possible disorientation or psychological factors. Harsh weather and challenging terrain complicated the intensive search. His mysterious disappearance remains unsolved, highlighting how even the most experienced outdoorsman can become lost in vast, unforgiving wilderness.
Note: Mike is recovering from a serious illness and had some issues with...
Into Thin Air: The Vanishing of Wesley Wamsganz in the Adirondacks
November 20th, 2010—As darkness fell on Lake Placid New York, a 22-year-old hiker set off into the High Peaks Wilderness after his shift at The Downtown Diner. Several hiking parties spotted him in his green Carhartt jacket before vanishing into the trees two miles in. Days later, that jacket was found. He was not. Join us this week as we unravel the disappearance of Wesley Wamsganz.
Learn more about Locations Unknown: https://linktr.ee/LocationsUnknown
Check out our other shows on the Unknown Media Network:
Crime Off The Grid
Off The Trails
The Pea...
Mystery in the Valley: Kyle Brittain’s Disappearance on Hawaii’s Big Island
On August 30, 2019, an experienced hiker set out along the steep, treacherous Z Trail on Hawaii's Big Island. When he failed to return, massive search efforts were stymied by thick jungles, towering cliffs, and sudden downpours—and no clues were ever found. Was it a tragic fall, or is something far more unsettling at work? Join us this week as we dive into one of Hawai‘i’s most baffling, unsolved missing-person cases: the disappearance of Kyle Brittain.
Learn more about Locations Unknown: https://linktr.ee/LocationsUnknown
Check out our other shows on the Unknown Media Network:
Cr...
Gone in Alaska Part 3: The Mysterious Disappearance of Thomas Seibold
Survivalist and skilled outdoorsman Thomas Seibold left a homestead cabin in October 2012, bound for the vast expanse of Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve for what was supposed to be a brief adventure. Instead, he was never seen again. Join us for part three of Gone in Alaska to find out why Seibold’s disappearance remains one of the most enduring mysteries of the Last Frontier.
Learn more about Locations Unknown: https://linktr.ee/LocationsUnknown
Check out our other shows on the Unknown Media Network:
Crime Off The Grid
Off The Trails
Special Release: Fan Voicemail reactions - Part 9
Hey friends! Since Joe & I are off this week and next week, we thought it would be fun to release our latest members only voicemail episode. If you like this kind of content and want to support the show, you can become a Patreon member for as little as $5 a month and never miss another episode. (Link below) If Patreon isn't your thing, you can become a Spreaker, YouTube, or Apple podcast premium member to enjoy the same content we publish on Patreon.
Next week, we'll be releasing a special guest hosted episode. The following week, Joe & I will...
Vanished: The Mystery of Percy Fawcett & The Lost City of Z
Deep in the uncharted reaches of the Brazilian rainforest lies one of exploration’s most enduring riddles. In 1925, a daring British explorer ventured there with two companions in search of a lost city that might reshape history. Then, on the threshold of the unknown, all three vanished. Theories swirl: hostile tribes, disease, or even a hidden new life among the forest’s peoples. Join us as this week as we investigate the puzzling disappearance of Percy Fawcett and the Lost City of Z.
Learn more about Locations Unknown: https://linktr.ee/LocationsUnknown
Check out our other shows...
Lost in the Grand Canyon: The Mystery of Glen & Bessie Hyde
A young, adventurous couple embarks on a bold mission in 1928: to conquer the Colorado River through the Grand Canyon and claim two record-breaking feats. The newlyweds pilot a handmade wooden scow down the rushing waters, navigating rugged rapids and unpredictable weather. As their journey stretches on, they mysteriously disappear, leaving behind a boat filled with supplies and a puzzle that has haunted explorers, historians, and investigators ever since. Did they succumb to the canyon’s treacherous waters, or was there something more sinister at play? Clues and rumors have surfaced over decades, but the truth remains elusive. Join us this we...
Legends from the Wild: Stone Hunts, Shadows Stalk, and Vines Devour
Join us this week as we explore the chilling legends lurking in America’s wilderness and beyond. We’ll travel to the misty trails of a famed national park where a cunning, stone-skinned predator once terrorized the locals. Then, we head north to the icy Alaskan expanse patrolled by a shadowy hound that paralyzes its victims with a single glance. Finally, we dive into a South American jungle, rumored to harbor a man-eating plant that ensnares unsuspecting explorers. Each tale blends historical echoes with bone-chilling folklore, leaving you to wonder: where does fact end, and myth begin?
Learn more a...
Denali’s Magic Bus: The Epic Quest and Tragic End of Christopher McCandless
In the early 1990's, a young man's quest for freedom leads him to abandon society, hitchhike across America, and live in the Alaskan wilderness. His journey, inspired by literary ideals, ends tragically in an abandoned bus shrouded in mystery. Join us this week as we explore the incredible life and story of Christopher McCandless, also known as "Alexander Supertramp."
Note: At some point in the episode we mentioned (or meant to mention and mispoke) a book titled "Back to the Wild" costing $64 on Amazon. We know the book Into the Wild is easliy purchased anywhere books are s...
A Canyon of Secrets: The Jim Carter Disappearance
On May 23, 1950, a skilled mountaineer vanished near Ape Canyon in Washington’s Gifford Pinchot National Forest. That morning, he split from his ski party to photograph them from a different vantage point—but never returned. Despite intense searches of the rugged volcanic terrain, neither Carter nor his camera was ever found. Was it a tragic accident, or is there a hidden truth lurking on the slopes? Join us this week as we investigate the mysterious disappearance of Jim Carter.
Correction: We mispoke regarding diabetes, hypoglycemia, and insulin. To eliminate confusion, we have cut these parts from the episo...
Lost in the Northwoods: The Vanishing of Andrew Bliss
On June 20, 2003, a young man abandoned his car on a remote Wisconsin forest road and vanished without a trace. In the days before, he’d quit his job, withdrawn thousands in cash, and displayed strange, erratic behavior. Despite extensive searches in the sprawling Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, he was never found. Was he lost, taken, or running from something? Join us this week as we investigate the strange disappearance of Andrew Bliss.
Learn more about Locations Unknown: https://linktr.ee/LocationsUnknown
Check out our other shows on the Unknown Media Network:
Off The Trails
The Pean...
Gone in Alaska Part 2: A Tale of Three Richards missing in the Alaskan Wilderness
A year has passed since Richard Lyman Griffis stepped off a bus in the Yukon and vanished into the vast wilderness of Wrangell–St. Elias National Park. But he wasn’t the only man named Richard to go missing in Alaska’s unforgiving backcountry. Around the same time, Richard Hills and Richard Bennett also disappeared without a trace. In this second episode of Locations Unknown: Special Edition – Gone in Alaska, we examine these unsettling cases and uncover what they reveal about the hidden dangers lurking in America’s last frontier.
Learn more about Locations Unknown: https://linktr.ee/LocationsUn...
Haunted Peaks: The Unsolved Vanishings of Australia’s Victorian Alps
Australia’s high country glows with raw beauty and deep mystery, overshadowed by a long history of unsolved disappearances. Even the most seasoned explorers—hardened hikers and skilled hunters—have vanished here without a trace, leaving behind only faint traces and countless unanswered questions. Rumors persist of a reclusive bushman lurking in remote corners of the wilderness, whose silent watch only deepens the mystery. In these rugged Victorian Alps, stunning vistas give way to haunting puzzles that continue to perplex and unsettle all who venture in. Join us this week as we investigate the cold cases of Australia’s hidden highland...
Who Runs This Park Interviews Joe & Mike
In this special episode of Locations Unknown, Maddie from Who Runs This Park interviews us on a wide range of topics. Our conversation covered a behind the scenes look at everything that goes into Locations Unknown, the cases that stay with us the most, and whether the stories we cover have changed how we spend time outdoors. We also shared some of our wildest wilderness tales, including camping overnight with armed park rangers searching for an aggressive grizzly in Glacier National Park. Hope you enjoy the interview as much as we did.
Show note: We're off next week for T...
Missing on Mt. of the Holy Cross in Colorado: The Mysterious Disappearance of Michelle Vanek
A fitness enthusiast and mother of four, Michelle Vanek, 35, set out to conquer Colorado’s Mount of the Holy Cross in 2005. Straying onto the grueling Halo Ridge Route, Michelle faced fatigue, high-altitude sickness, and frigid temperatures. After splitting from her hiking partner near the peak, she vanished without a trace. Despite an exhaustive search involving hundreds of rescuers, only a boot was found—17 years later. Did Michelle succumb to the mountain’s brutal elements, or does the Holy Cross Wilderness hold darker secrets? Tune in as we unravel the mystery surrounding her disappearance.
Learn more about Locations Unknown: https://li...
Special Release - Fan Voicemail reactions - Part 8
Enjoy this special release from our members only content. In this episode, we react to all the voicemails we've received since February 2024. This is a sample of the content we provide if you subscribe on Patreon, YouTube, Apple, or Spreaker. This episode was originally released on 9/8/2024. (Warning - there is explicit language in this episode.)
Learn more about Locations Unknown: https://linktr.ee/LocationsUnknown
Learn about other shows in the Unknown Media Group network: The Weirdos We Know & Off The Trails!
Want to help the show out and get even more Locations Unknown c...
Ghosts of the Arctic - The Haunting Mystery of Franklin's Lost Expedition
In 1845, Sir John Franklin led 129 men on HMS Erebus and HMS Terror into the Arctic, vanishing without a trace and sparking one of history’s most haunting mysteries. This Halloween, we explore the eerie legacy of the Franklin Expedition: ghostly sightings around the shipwrecks, chilling whispers near graves on Beechey Island, and cursed artifacts that bring misfortune to those who dare disturb them. Was it lead poisoning, starvation, or something supernatural that doomed the crew? Join us as we dive into the deep end of the Arctic’s frozen secrets and uncover what happened to Sir John Franklins Northwest passage expe...
Gone in Alaska: The Mysterious Disappearance of François Guenot in Katmai National Park
Join us this week for the first of a Special Mini Series, 'Gone In Alaska'.
June 19, 2014, on a desolate stretch of island beach in Katmai National Park and Preserve in Alaska, a battered red and white kayak, a map, journals, full bags of rice and lentils, and one French passport were found. It told the name of a missing man and about his 3000-mile journey. Join us this week for a Special Edition of Locations Unknown: Gone In Alaska, where we investigate the strange disappearance of François Guenot. (Episode 115)
Learn more about Locations Unknown: https://lin...
Veteran Park Ranger Vanishes in Chiricahua National Monument
On a quiet afternoon in January 1980, veteran park ranger Paul Fugate set out on a routine patrol in Arizona's Chiricahua National Monument, promising to return shortly. He was never seen again. Despite extensive searches, not a single trace of him was found. Was it a tragic accident in the rugged wilderness, or did something more sinister happen? Join us as we revisit the mysterious disappearance of Paul Fugate. (Episode 114)
We first covered this case back on December 1, 2018. At that time, no other podcasts had covered Paul's case and very few shows were even focusing on wilderness disappearances. Since then...
26-Year-Old Leo Wagner Disappears Near Glacier National Park
April 27th, 2021, In the shadow of Glacier National Park, on the rugged shores of Lower St. Mary Lake, a 26-year-old vanished under mysterious circumstances. What began as a typical spring evening quickly spiraled into one of Montana’s most perplexing missing person cases. Despite extensive searches, rumors, and disturbing clues, nothing has been found. Join us this week as we investigate the disappearance of Leo Wagner. (Episode 113)
*EPISODE CORRECTION: We originally stated in the opening episode summary that Leo was last seen on 4/24/21. While some reports stated the 24th & 26th, a review of all available case information poin...
Hunter Tom Leonard Disappears in Canada’s Remote Spatsizi Plateau
On September 11, 2005, experienced outdoorsman and hunter, Tom Leonard, embarked on what was supposed to be the adventure of a lifetime. Armed with a rare, limited-entry permit to hunt sheep in the remote and rugged Spatsizi Plateau Wilderness Provincial Park, he meticulously planned a 10-day hunt, packing enough supplies for an additional 10 days, just in case. But when Tom failed to return home, his worried wife alerted authorities, sparking a massive search through one of Canada's most unforgiving landscapes. (Episode 112)
What happened to Tom Leonard? Was it the treacherous terrain, unpredictable weather, or something far more sinister lurking in t...
The Mount Asahidake SOS Incident - Japan
July 24th, 1989: The police in Hokkaido, Japan dispatched a helicopter to the Daisetsuzan National Park to search for two lost hikers that had been reported missing. The searchers rescued the two hikers but what brought them to their location in the first place is where the real mystery begins. Join us this week as we investigate the Mount Asahidake SOS Incident. (Episode 111)
Learn more about Locations Unknown: https://linktr.ee/LocationsUnknown
New Patreon Shoutouts - Megan Timmers
Want to help the show out and get even more Locations Unknown content! For as little as $5 a m...
Marine Matthew Kraft Vanishes on Solo Sierra Nevada Trek
On February 23rd 2019, after embarking on a solo 10 day trek through the Sierra Nevadas via the Sierra High Route, a 1st Division Marine with mountaineering and survival training never returned. Multiple agencies searched for more than a week but found no clues. Join us this week as we investigate the disappearance of Matthew Kraft. (Episode 110)
Learn more about Locations Unknown: https://linktr.ee/LocationsUnknown
New Patreon Shoutouts - Kylie Amato, Andrea Broger, Kelly Leadingham, Ashleigh Kenny, Rebecca Hadden, Diane Paradis.
Want to help the show out and get even more Locations Unknown content! For as l...
13-Year-Old James Yoblonski Vanishes Near Wisconsin's Devil’s Lake State Park
June 12th, 2023, a 13 year old takes the family van on a late night drive in Central Wisconsin. When the family wakes up the next day and realizes he's gone, a missing persons report is filed and a search is kicked off. Later that day, the van, a cell phone, and an abandoned camp are discovered near Devil's Lake State Park. Join us this week as we investigate the disappearance of James Yoblonski. (Episode 109)
Learn more about Locations Unknown: https://linktr.ee/LocationsUnknown
New Patreon Shoutouts: Catherine Pierce, Irmani Smallwood, Heidi Wikman, Misty Kosak, Shelby Elswick, Cara Peter...
Paola Miranda-Rosa Vanishes After Being Seen at Wekiwa Springs in Florida
December 18, 2021, hikers record a video of a woman swimming at Wekiwa Springs State Park in Florida. This video would be the last time anyone would see her. A few days later, her car was found in the same state park. Was it an accident or possible foul play, join us this week as we investigate the disappearance of Paola Miranda-Rosa. (Episode 108)
We'd like to welcome Off the Trails Podcast to Unknown Media Group! You can listen to their podcast here: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/off-the-trails--6221956
Learn more about Locations Unknown: https://linktr.ee/LocationsUnknown
N...
Boy Scout Geoff Hague Disappears in Great Smoky Mountains
On February 8th, 1970, a troop of Boy Scouts was hiking and camping near Ice Water Springs in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. During their return, one scout, Geoff Hague, got separated from the group and was never seen again. Join us this week as we investigate the disappearance of Geoff Hague. (Episode 107)
Learn more about Locations Unknown: https://linktr.ee/LocationsUnknown
New Patreon Shoutouts: Bryan Nutt, Aimee VanAndel, Morgan Miller, Mellissa Kooyman, Mary Ellen O’Brien, Kellie Bishop, Allison Ferris, Jennifer Terranova, Ryan Norton.
Want to help the show out and get even more...
Photographer Paul Miller Vanishes on Hike in Joshua Tree
On July 13, 2018, Paul and his wife were vacationing in California to celebrate their 26th wedding anniversary. Before wrapping up their trip, Paul wanted to take one last day hike through Joshua Tree National Park, hoping to get some good shots of the parks Big Horn Sheep. After several hours had passed without Paul's return, his wife alerted the authorities and a massive search kicked off shortly after. Join us this week as we revisit the disappearance and eventual recovery of Paul Miller in Joshua Tree National Park. (Episode 106)
This was the second case we covered on the podcast back o...
