Her "Vanlife Dream" turned into a LIVING (and deadly) NIGHTMARE...

[@KyleHatesHiking]

I'm seeing SO MANY nice comments directed towards Dan Colegate, and I just wanted to tell you all how much I appreciate this. I have the best subscribers on KZbin...the compassion, respect, and love that you all show towards the people in my stories is proof of this. I'm beyond grateful.

[@kkittycatkat1990]

Kyle, there is google. Type in the word and then type "pronunciation". Do this with your english words. I've seen many threads where long time viewers have had it with "and I hope I pronounce this right" Kyle. You have lost so many subs because of your...well, laziness; when it comes to you & your inability to do that most simple thing. These are LONG TIME VIEWERS! I mean, I'm kind of surprised you pronunce "Mt. Everest" right. Lol. These are simple words, Kyle. Like names, you can figure them out, Kyle. Some older ladies may think it's cute. I assure you that the more people watch, like from the beginning, it gets really annoying and I don't know why you won't do the extra work. I didn't mind but I have been getting really annoyed when you CONSISTENTLY pronounce words wrong and think it's appropriate to never even try to excel your channel vs making many long time viewers upset to the point that they leave because you seem to think it's okay to do the least and get by. Instead, it's "I hope that I'm saying this right" Kyle. For YEARS, every single video! Google: "The Word" and then "PRONUNCIATION" This should help a lot, Kyle. It really should help with subs. Don't rely on "long time viewers" who "know that you can't (won't) pronunce words right". smh! It's people who don't expect much from you as you don't expect much from yourself, who defend this! Channel's that put in the effort don't lose long time subs. They also don't have many mom's & those who "aren't bothered" defending them in the comments for "a school for kids who can't read good...and other stuff" - Zoolander Lol. I'd love to see you try a bit harder. I'd love to see you reach your goal. Dan's a rockstar. There's no end to what love can accomplish. Donating now.

[@itsnotthesamething]

@@kkittycatkat1990 It takes a lot of time to make these vids. He has to do research, do edits, etc... So he can't pronounce some words. I'm glad to have someone who covers this type of mystery. I don't care if he doesn't know how to pronounce some things. He tries, apologizes to the fact that he might get it wrong, and presents a great story anyway.

[@CMinorOp67]

@@kkittycatkat1990lol…wow. To read the pinned comment and then to see the first reply. What a juxtaposition. (Do you know that word, Kitty…Google if you don’t.) Now I guess I understand why content creators constantly apologize when trying to pronounce something…because of viewers that get soooooo b**t-hurt over a mispronounced name. No, actually, I don’t understand it…cause, holy moly, who cares? The apologizing is more annoying than the mispronunciation…but that’s just me. I won’t go on a tirade about it, though…cause, life. I have one.

[@bunnybgood411]

​@@kkittycatkat1990Jebus! I have two degrees in English and *I* am not bothered by Kyle's mispronunciations. How could you know that droves of viewers have unsubscribed from Kyle's channel? Stop being a d¡ck.

[@IggyFireMist]

So now I'm going to have to go find out where she fell from?

[@hannahp1108]

He walked 700 miles in a month looking for her, and he found her. That truly is a testament to his love for her. I hope he finds peace.

[@Brandoncye]

Right! So sad!

[@Kaloapoele]

Such a touching and emotional story

[@cpmow831]

I cannot even fathom finding the woman I love in that condition

[@crayzmarc]

Spoiler

[@Duzzer_One]

@@cpmow831 that's exactly what crossed my mind too. I would be destroyed..

[@jillwklausen]

My stepbrother was an extreme athlete. He could hike, climb, rappel or ski any mountain. He was one of those guys who got dropped off on the back faces of mountains by helicopter to ski down the pristine powder. And then, while on a casual hike with his family to the top of Angel's Landing in Zion National Park, his foot slipped on loose rocks, he lost his balance and fell 1,000 feet down the sheer rock face to his death. Accidents can happen to anyone, even the most highly skilled. My deepest condolences to Dan and to all of Esther's family and friends. Sadly, I know just how they feel. 😢 May she rest in peace.

[@Klapauzius-369]

Angels Landing is very dangerous too. 💚 My best wishes.

[@catseatcookiessofiagacha5210]

I'm so sorry for your loss.😢

[@jillwklausen]

Thank you, @catseatcookiessofiagacha5210 .

[@dal8963]

Dang I was thinking you would say he broke his leg or almost got hurt then u said he fell 1000 to his death..sorry u had to witness that must have been very tramadic for you and your family. So sad that happened to him and yall.

[@jillwklausen]

Thank you, @dal8963 . It was horrific for everyone. I wasn't there, but he was there with his wife, his two kids, and his wife's family. His daughter tried to green his hand, but if she had, she'd have just gone over with him. The family were all out for a hike the day before the father of his wife's sister was to get married. Needless to say, that didn't end up happening. They got married in a small private ceremony a couple of days later. More than 700 people showed up to Barry's funeral. Barry Goldstein, 2007, if you want to look it up. Thank you for your kind thoughts.

[@LookAtTheTrees]

You found her Dan and that speaks volumes of your character and your bond with your partner

[@reinasherman8009]

So much love shown for his partner. In a way I am glad he was the one that found her but at the same time that is so heartbreaking too

[@weekendnomad5038]

Nah it’s weird that they were supposed to get married and she dies

[@lighthouselaura4324]

one thing positive, is that her gear wasn't set up like a shelter. so, she prob die pretty soon to when she fell. she didn't starve or freeze to death along with being gravely injured. Let's u know that even the most experience, prepared person can die in nature. Novice beware. I hope he can find comfort knowing HE brought her home.

[@6foot8jesuspilledpureblood82]

​@@weekendnomad5038 people die, mistakes happen

[@bryanmerberonio5245]

​@@lighthouselaura4324KEN'S QUEEN HOUSEWIFE 'ENDAY'... 😮😮😮

[@highdesertforester]

I'm a highly skilled hiker with decades of experience yet I fell and broke my leg and had to be airlifted out of the wilderness. It made me more humble.

[@TeddyRumble]

But you got quickly found. What happened to this girl? And why was her skull so far from the rest of her body? Obviously migrants.

[@rozchristopherson648]

Mother Nature is a force to be reckoned with.

[@pod8234]

I too am highly skilled and hike routinely alone. Many lose calls have kept me closer to home as well as advancing years. ( I’m 72 now). Only my son has the same wanderlust needs as myself. He’s the person one who is “ fun” for me to hike with…so I usually go alone. Only a kindred spirit understands this love for solo hiking. Most people think it sounds awful. I think people have a hard time with being alone…

[@avril.227]

So sorry, same here. Broke my wrist right in half trying to stop a fall.

[@TeddyRumble]

@@pod8234 I can hike with people...or hike alone. I'm older now and slower, which is very frustrating.

[@Travelin_Man1]

One thing I also conclude from this story -- besides the fact that Dan is an incredible man, devoted to his love -- is that finding someone who has lost their life in a wilderness area like this is very difficult. As a long time backpacker myself, I actually am surprised when remains *are* found. There is just so much land to search, with so much topography, so many nooks and crannies, water features and drops. Everyone concluded that this search was so thorough she just couldn't have been missed. But she was. At least until her amazing, devoted partner found her through sheer strength of will. What a sad and lonely search that must have been, with only his thoughts and memories of his beloved to keep him company. Rest in Peace.

[@RH-tv9hk]

Beautifully said. I agree that it can be incredibly easy to become lost or incapacitated and quite difficult to be found. Many times there is a mass of incredulous reactions; that it's just not possible to become lost on certain trails, or not possible to miss someone in a search. But forests are so dense, massive, and confusing. Like you, I'm more surprised when people are found.

[@deirdrepasko9056]

Such a lovely response, it made me cry.

[@LilyAmongThorns]

The main take away for me (not diminishing or taking away from Dan being a wonderful human being) is the fact that she was a skilled hiker and that this skilled hiker, hiking alone, had an accident. It stresses for me the importance of NOT hiking alone, to always have at least one person with you. I pray for family and friends to at least find comfort in that she enjoyed her life doing what she loved most. May she rest in peace. 🙏

[@PazuzuM666]

Absolutely ❤

[@stacybroussard3097]

​@@LilyAmongThornsAmen 🙏🏼❤️🙏🏼

[@ChristineHK]

That poor man suffering with the loss of his love and then scummy media twisting things to cast a shadow on him. I pray he finds solace in that his family and friends.

[@giggiddy]

I didnt realize that Europe had the same filthy scummy journalists as they have in the US. They also make Hollywood and the recording industry as skeevy and rotten as everything else they touch. Tiny hats...

[@suz1665]

Sounds about right, they do it with everything 😢.

[@Kaloapoele]

Not to make light but humans are so arrogant to assume the real reason for her passing wasn't very possible. Animals experienced in nature (including human animals) die from accidents in the infinite unknown all the time.

[@nico5179]

He should sue these morons at the media to oblivion.

[@isabellind1292]

@@suz1665 It's as bad as the woman who went missing in Wa state and her husband was frantically trying to get the authorities to call out the troops to look for her. Her boss called the cops and told them she suspected the husband in her disappearance, meanwhile the poor woman who'd actually accidentally careened off the road in her car, lay trapped for 7 days in the bottom of a ravine before rescuers found her alive. If she hadn't been found or wasn't alive I'm sure her husband would have been suspected in her disappearance/death for the rest of his life, no thanks to the woman's crappy boss who had the gall to accuse the husband for NO REASON! The couple were devoted to each other.

[@sharonletts88]

Shame on the media for sensationalizing this tragedy. Blessings on his heart and her soul.

[@loridavis5699]

Media is biased. Just look at what they have done to Trump

[@dirtrider9268]

"The media" people complain about, is just reporters and editors, struggling for eyeballs, just like every Vlogger on YT. Just look at the title of this video that you clicked on here, "Living and deadly nightmare". Are vloggers also media, using salacious, hyperbolic, sensational titles to grab your attention? Do we see gratuitous graphic and even morbid titles and thumbnails, yes almost every time. When we stop looking at train wrecks and police chases, maybe "the media" will change their approach also. Don't hold your breath that humans will change that negativity bias anytime soon given how it took over 100,000 years of evolution to build that in... if it bleeds it leads, is the old news business slogan, for a good reason, it sells.

[@sharonletts88]

@@dirtrider9268 I’ve been in media for 25 years, and I have never sensationalized anything. Even within the media, there are myriad personalities and sensibilities.

[@Zyryne1]

Sensationalized too late. Perhaps if it had been blasted right when it was reported, she could have been found? 😊❤

[@dirtrider9268]

@@sharonletts88 okay. This is not personal. Your's is not the only comment like this. But please explain who is ''the media", we should be concerned about here? Is it your peers , or who specifically? I've heard a prominent con man call the Media "the enemy of the people!", while telling over 30,000 falsehoods in 4 years time. Kyle here made claims about media without any proof also, and these Comments sound a little like the same blame game. Big and small media business does this for business. I believe we should be rightfully concerned about intentional false story telling like the example proven in court under oath how one media giant Fox News, with Rupert, Sean, Tucker and Laura internal emails proving they believed the opposite of what they told viewers on their broadcasts about the Election results, secure voting machines, etc. Alex Jones is another. Why throw "media" under the bus when you yourself know precisely why speculation occurs or how early info is often wrong or how history/odds show that someone the victim knew, is often involved and the reason police look closely there. Give us your insight on why "the media" is _______. I believe rigorous honest media is the fourth pillar in the foundation of this great country of the US and without sunshine (the media), truth and justice dies. And let's put blame where it deserves, Fox News, Alex Jones, 45, etc. Cherish free media and the institutions like Courts who can keep them honest. Thanks for bringing this up and thank you for your honest work.

[@marilynwinters8518]

Dan Colgate truly loved Esther Dingley and would not rest until he learned the truth for himself. Rest in peace Esther, and you as well Dan, you brought closure for her family, and everyone else that loved her. Dan was truly her knight in shining armor until her unfortunate end.

[@PaulBongiorno-v2l]

You received all that from this vid(s), and possibly other internet searches? No wonder our species is so messed up.

[@cdmurphy949]

​@@PaulBongiorno-v2lWhat? 🙄

[@india1422]

My dear friend Stella died 7 years ago. She was walking along a mountain path in Switzerland. It was near her home and she and her husband walked along it often. It had been snowing. He walked along this very short section first. She followed him and made one small misstep. The result was horrific.

[@Kristenoyinbo]

I'm so sorry for the loss of your friend. ❤

[@ruthd7274]

I'm so sorry.

[@lorimiller4301]

Extremely sad misfortune. A lesson to everyone. We must be careful in dangerous situations because all it takes is a misstep. Thanks for sharing.

[@robinlugosi3961]

I'm so sorry for your loss!

[@backtomyroots6515]

Omg sorry for your loss! Thats so sad! 💔

[@TapIntoAlignment]

If we could all have a Dan in our life. This world would be a much better place. 💗

[@timhouston4470]

Dan was an all-round legend. The way he didn't give up on Esther was awe-inspiring. I hope he finds some peace, he's earned it.

[@jan9562]

IS an all-round legend

[@123edwardzpad]

It's okay to come back and edit for grammar. It does do something weird with the comments.

[@erfahren]

I don't remember, why did she go off by herself again? Looking for another man out there in the wilderness? You insist not? Why? Young male naivety is romantic and cute until people suffer & die in the real world. Young men can still manage to get into relationships where they're jealous and control a young woman but there will be inevitable violence. It's the young man's narrative but be wiser and compassionate about women's wants & needs since that is realistic.

[@cdmurphy949]

​@@erfahren How incredibly small of you. 🙄

[@AbbyD_TN]

Dan, so sorry for your loss. There is a little comfort in knowing she died doing what she loved, but she died way too young.

[@materockk1579]

Not really...just stay indoors and stop committing suicide adventure

[@sunsettropical]

Cute pfp❤😊

[@erictaylor5462]

No one who is an experienced hiker can rule out a random accident. A branch falling off a tree, a a land slide can catch you out and end you so quickly you don't even have time to say "oh-".

[@TeddyRumble]

So true. There was a story a couple of years ago about a backpacker from Germany on the Pacific Crest trail who was killed by a falling tree.

[@elipotter369]

Or slipping in a pebble or bit of mud or loose rock.

[@Jesper-bl2ns]

As someone who have hiked a lot in the pyrenees - you have to prepare for very unpredictable weather conditions. Considering it was late November - it would be snowy and cold. I have walked through the entire length of the pyrenees from hendaye at the mediterrenean to biarritz at the atlantic. It's not all a pleasure walk and I have met many people in the pyrenees that behave like they are experts in everything hiking related - while at the same time making incredibly stupid decisions.

[@ArthurB26]

That or a health issue. Unlikely in this case because she was healthy and relatively young but anyone can have a heart attack or aneurysm or something.

[@Jaime-u5m]

Yet, many continue to go at it SOLO! bless their hearts,,

[@LadyVesuvius]

When you said Dan walked 700 miles in 1 month just looking for Esther, I knew then what a dedicated partner he was to her and how much he must have loved her.

[@jackiemontogmery125]

I'm not a hiker. I'm 74yrs old. New to your channel . I truly don't understand why people continue to hike solo! Also with out a satellite phone out some way to call for help. I makes me sad that all if these amazing people have died. Grammy from Texas

[@smch6416]

I love to hike solo. Its the most freeing feeling. It gives my mind so much peace. I don't want to walk with someone rabbiting on the whole way 😂. I love the solace and nature

[@silverlining6259]

I love hiking solo

[@robertakizuki9806]

With my dog only

[@lewismartinez5130]

Sometimes it boils down to no one wanting to do the hike you want to do when you want to do it. And sometimes it boils down to just wanting solitude. And I always carry a PLB, but with the knowledge that if I suffer a bad fall or a heart attack, it may not do any good. On a well-traveled trail that I've done before, I consider it low risk. But not no risk. I could also die in a car accident tomorrow, with the only practical difference being that no one would write newspaper headlines about that.

[@becbell4913]

I'm not a hiker, it is a bit risky, but the Solitude sounds amazing, suppose those who love it know there are risks, a bit sad for their loved ones though

[@hughanquetil2567]

That poor guy! But you can tell his strength of character because he never stopped looking for her, walking hundreds and hundreds of miles through those mountains, until he found her.

[@JuniperWhiskeytart]

I hope he writes a book on it. (As he's an author)

[@beverlybalius9303]

Maybe he knew where she was?..

[@leannemo7382]

@@beverlybalius9303 No. He didn’t find her after the first 700 miles. It was after the runners had found her skull in July 2021 that he found the rest of her a couple weeks later on that mountain. Investigators and the autopsy were able to determine it was a fall that killed her. Hence a piece of her skull washing down the mountain. Her partner had been far away at a farm in France when she disappeared. He was devastated by the loss.

[@cdmurphy949]

​@@beverlybalius9303🙄

[@derekwalters4980]

Honestly, Dan and Esther's life together is truly a real life story of love. Despite what was being said about him, Dan never gave up finding Esther. Even though the ending was a sad one, Dan did bring her back home, he didn't leave the woman he loved in a remote icy grave where no loved one's could visit her and grieve. What gratitude her family must have for Dan for bringing her back, and such a long journey to find her. I hope Esther is looking down on Dan, being his angel, and appreciate his love for her. So impressive!!

[@sebastienbolduc5654]

Even an Olympian gold medalist swimmer can drown in an inch of water if they're unconscious. The same analogy applies to experienced hikers. My deepest sympathy for Dan and her family.

[@indianastones6032]

Experience only lessens the chances of things going wrong, it doesnt completely negate it. Experince can help too but its still no garuantee of ya coming through it alive.

[@VincentGroenewold]

@@indianastones6032 Sometimes it increases it btw, more experienced people tend to take more risks as well.

[@Ellesdy1]

Obama??

[@rtqii]

@@Ellesdy1 Successful, two-term, president who handed over a stable country with a steadily growing economy.

[@TeddyRumble]

How could she have fallen? If it's open terrain, that seems unlikely. I've been on probably 500 hikes and never came close to falling.

[@greg73cho]

Your determination to find the truth of your loved one speaks volumes of how much you cared, so sorry for your loss

[@amynapier3551]

Dan, I cannot even imagine the nightmare that you lived through. You went above and beyond to find Esther. My condolences to you and her family. May you continue to be surrounded by love, comfort and support.

[@bluebrolylover22]

I applaud you, Dan. You did something that the police couldn't do. First, you truly loved her and then you found her. My condolences I know how it feels to lose love ones. I'm truly sorry for your lose.

[@BowserLucaTheThird]

A lot of empathy, compassion and understanding in the telling of this story

[@KyleHatesHiking]

I appreciate you saying this. Telling these stories with compassion is always my number one priority, and it feels good to get some reassurance that I suceeded in this.

[@Jen-fr9vf]

@@KyleHatesHikingabsolutely.

[@BowserLucaTheThird]

@@KyleHatesHiking media bullying victims is far to common, don't think it's new at all, if anything being wiser is the new thing

[@emmaburgessdean2355]

I’d be so grateful from the beyond if my partner went to the ends of the earth like Dan did. Same for the partner of a sibling or loved one. Good guy.

[@pinkdarkman]

Recently there was a story in the news about a man in his 20s who finished a half marathon in 2 hours, which is a great time and he was an experienced runner, who immediately had a heart attack and died at the finish line. He had a heart condition that he never knew about until it killed him. This was at the Disney half marathon in California this year if you want to look it up. The world is full of random chance. We could all just randomly die at any second, no matter how much we train and prepare. I hope Esther didn't have to suffer for too long after her fall, and I hope Dan finds peace.

[@OldPuebloHops]

complacency leads to accidents. Tough to guard against. We’re all guilty of it, and have just been lucky- until we aren’t.

[@fiddlersthree8463]

What dedication, Dan. I am so very sorry for the loss of your beautiful life partner. May she rest in peace.

[@whiteroses47]

It was brave of Dan to find the rest of Esther's remains himself. The searchers did check out Port de la Glare on the French side but at that time there was a lot of snow. How unfortunate! I'm glad that Dan found her. The photo of her smiling says it all. Esther died doing what she loved best.

[@rrichardson53]

I wondered why the searchers didn’t find her first but didn’t know that they didn’t get to that area before the snow

[@jenlarge9036]

I don't get why people always say, "They died doing something they loved". I'd rather die if I was miserable. Who wants to die when they are enjoying themselves?

[@blackk_rose_]

@@jenlarge9036 It's comforting to think that a person was in a happy place in their life when they died. Knowing someone I love chose to go out and hike and loved that lifestyle until they ended up dying while doing exactly that would be much more comforting to hear to me than them being randomly hit by a drunk driver while on their way to the job they hated. Obviously the outcome (losing a loved one) is the same and both is equally tragic. But still, the first one is just so much more comforting to hear. At least it would be for most people. The things we say about death are never about the person who died, they are for the living. The dead are dead, they don't give a shit. It's those who remain that care and need every comfort they can get.

[@pm2886]

If you die from doing what you love, you chose the wrong hobby.

[@chuckwaardenburg496]

​@pm2886 Like what for instance❓️You can literally drop dead doing anything‼️

[@karilynn3535]

While the essence of this story is often repeated in death by so many experienced athletes, it's the couple's LOVE that makes this one so heavily heartfelt. Such a tragedy! My heart goes out to Dan. Perhaps a new book about their love will come out of this.

[@CatherineMaiorana]

What a beautiful person to not give up on his soul mate until he found her . That is true love. 😢❤

[@kathleenhensley5951]

Sad story. Brave man, faced the horror of searching for his beloved, knowing what he would find.

[@nettewilson5926]

They lived their dreams. Good for them. So few people have the courage to do this, or to find this kind of partnership.

[@WynneL]

Heartbreaking to think of what Dan went through. I've lost a partner and soulmate myself. It's already so impossibly crushing, like all the light and life went out of the world. To have to find their remains while knowing you've already been accused of causing their death, let alone with foul play being insinuated by some, I can't imagine... just thinking of it starts the emotional storm all over again. Lump in the throat, wet eyes... I wish him all the love, happiness, and health he can find after this pain. Thanks for telling this story with such compassion, Kyle.

[@all-to-Him-I-owe100]

I am so sorry for your loss. In your pain and sorrow please remember this life is only temporary. We still have eternity. I am praying for peace, comfort and joy to find its way to you again. ❤🙏🏻

[@LaraFabans]

My heart goes out to Dan, and while it was probably horrible, I'm glad he was able to find her and give her peace. I once worked for a newspaper and was shocked at how salacious they really are.

[@GodsMan500]

I’m not sure how finding her bones would give her peace. Would you please explain?

[@Zyryne1]

Humanity can't surprise me anymore. 😊❤

[@TeddyRumble]

Journos are sickos.

[@vickystevens6123]

That is so sad.I wish he could have found her alive. But I'm glad that he was able to find some closure for her family and himself. REST IN PEACE ESTHER.

[@MyMistakeBut]

I truly appreciate the respectful way you approach a new story and way with which you handle the resolution. The sensitivity required is often overlooked and is, I believe, essential to the appropriate handling of many of these situations. Thank you, Kyle! 🦋

[@MsMindself666]

So sorry you had to find her yourself Dan. What a tragic ending she had to face and I'm so sorry you both never got to have your wedding but I'm also so thankful you both got to spend 6 years doing what you both loved together. RIP Esther

[@cnubs20]

Kyle you are awesome ! I had the pleasure of having Kyle at my house for the past few years and what a great person . I had a Garmin stolen from me and Kyle upon dropping him off at the airport told me that there was a Garmin in the mail on the way to me !!! A testament of how good of a dude he is outside of his videos. Love seeing your channel grow because you deserve it and so much more brotha :))

[@angelicajacobs584]

I get the partner has to be interviewed when a spouse or partner goes missing but I really hate how the media can spin it and make him look evil or suspect. It's so wrong. I can't imagine grieving and the world is saying bad things about you and completely false lies. Huge respect to him for going thru that and staying strong and keeping his focus on finding his partner❤ in the end he found her so she could lay to rest.

[@TeddyRumble]

Scott Peterson did it.

[@lilbitofsouthernspirit7788]

Dan Colgate, You are one good guy! I hope you find healing, peace, & happiness. Thank you for setting the bar high. You didn't give up. You walked over 700 miles to find Her. That in its self is beyond love and loyalty! My heartfelt condolences and prayers are with You and Esthers Families.

[@susanhemion2981]

What a testament of true love. He didn’t stop searching until he found his love.

[@ifell3]

Bloody hell Dan, true love there when you spend so much energy and time trying to find her. Total respect to you for going the extra 1000 miles plus! 🧡

[@lunagoodhart5489]

It was determined by authorities that the cause of Esther's fall was her well worn shoes, they were so worn that they had no tread left on them. Which made them slippery & dangerous resulting in her slipping & falling to her death. I'm honestly surprised that this information isn't included in this video

[@tedjohnson64]

Thanks for sharing that. Did they also determine why the extensive search didn’t find her? Where did Dan find her, and why did no one else look there earlier?

[@steveh8658]

@@tedjohnson64 As far as I can see from other comments here, they did search that area at the time but there was a lot of snow, so her body was likely covered over.

[@deborahsimpson2732]

Kinda wondering why a very experienced hiker would have well worn hiking shoes. Isn't having proper footwear in good condition a primary requirement for long distance hikers?

[@tnit7554]

My question is : her bodyparts were found in different locations??

[@gnarbeljo8980]

​@@tnit7554YES! That's the ONE thing about this story that leaves me baffled as to why no theory has been offered how the heck a part of her skull was found in an entirely different location! I have to assume this is down to flways in the teling of thime story, and nothing else. It would be the first thing authorities would crack down on if that was the case.

[@modern.performer]

_"the searchers were about to go hard af"_ 💀 man that line slapped

[@hannahbeanies8855]

I am so heartbroken for Dan. But Esther got to live her dreams by traveling for years and seeing the beauty of the world. She is gone much too soon, but there is a lot to be said about getting to live your dream with someone you love. I hope you are doing well, Dan. ❤

[@bubbletractor]

I became interested in outdoor missing persons cases because I didn't understand how someone could still be missing after extensive search efforts. The more I learned about it, the more I learned that accidents are always a possibility, and a solid one, no matter how much you've searched and found no clues. No matter how experienced the person is. I completely understand why Dan would have guessed foul play, and I'm so sorry he had to be the one to find her.

[@Out_GalliVANtin]

Watching as I’m staying in my van in a National Forest.😅 Edit: I posted this before watching the video, and I feel like it may come across as insensitive. That was never my intention, and I’m terribly sorry for Dan’s loss.

[@lisaborsella5412]

It sounds beautiful! Enjoy and be safe

[@KoopaRipper-dk8sz]

🗿

[@jimstone5401]

Scary.

[@cherylcampbell9369]

Just don't post your real exact area/ location online.

[@jamesdonnegan867]

Take care, stay safe

[@mattys281]

Dan and Ester both sound like absolute legends! It’s tragic for her to die so young, but what a fantastic life she lived. RIP.

[@j.whiteoak6408]

I admire you so much, Dan - you refused to give up until you found her. Even amid the horrible things that people were saying about you. People can be so cruel - and I bet they never even apologised to you! I hope you and Esther's family can each find peace from your grief... I'm so terribly sorry for your loss ❤❤

[@alexfenton229]

Glad I came straight to comments after the bombardment of 6 adverts in the first few minutes and found out immediately what happened. God Bless Dan and RIP Esther 🙏❤❤❤🙂‍↕️

[@elizabethebbighausen9341]

Much love and respect to Dan. I can't imagine finding your partner, or anyone you love, especially under those circumstances. Kyle: although I don't know of another case of a partner finding a partner in a hiking accident an interesting fact: Sam Sayers' boyfriend found Rachel Lakoduk. I live in the area and have followed both of their stories. Rachel was found while searchers were looking for Tom Simonsenth (who they also found). Honestly , it's tragic and disgusting how so many, including Sam's mom, have accused her boyfriend of foul play when he was nowhere near Vesper Peak when she went missing and continues to search for her as well as aid in other searches to this day. 😢 RIP to all. 💜

[@norakobusinge2748]

Dear Dan, you loved and were loved in return. Few of us receive that bounty. That is the gem in the depth of your grief.

[@cillalilly]

No matter how "experienced" someone is doesn't mean they can't have an accident or still get lost.

[@deanjones2525]

This is why, despite how experienced a person maybe, they shouldn't do this kind of thing by themselves - especially a woman. NEVER make yourself a potential victim. An unscrupulous man will be more inclined to attack a lone female hiker or traveller than he would a man.

[@latetotheparty7551]

Exactly. I'm not an experienced hiker but watching channels like this shows, time and time again, even the best ones are one accident, one stroke of bad luck, away from the reaper. Or being disabled to the point that all their experience and knowledge is undercut, and reasonably so. Not their fault, just the nature of that life. Edit: Corrected typo. I'm neither an experienced biker nor hiker. 😅

[@robertknowles2699]

Footing on snow always risky.​@latetotheparty7551

[@latetotheparty7551]

@@robertknowles2699 Great point.

[@timeforcoffee485]

So true. Look at all the famous experienced climbers lost on Everest. No-one can fight nature forever.

[@cynnajackson4556]

58 year old white gal from Oakland, California so I was def not in your intended audience but sure am glad this dropped in my feed. Jam, good on you for believing in yourself and persevering. You embody this saying about Character: Character is who you are when no one's watching.

[@louisaklimentos7583]

This is so sad that she had a fall and passed away . RIP beautiful Angel 🙏😇😊

[@phracture]

Sorry you had to go through that Dan. I respect how you handled the situation, while under heavy stress, and to stay committed to finding her is beyond impressive. RIP Esther

[@Tameasa]

Dan --- I am so sorry for your loss. Esther seemed to be a lovely lady. I pray her memory will always be a blessing to you and Esther's family.

[@ecm958]

As much as closure is important it must have been heart breaking to find Esther's remains and gear.

[@isabellavalencia8026]

Never hike alone!!!

[@matayvonne4408]

Dan, I’m so sorry for your loss. My heart goes out to you, her family also. You never gave up, I think she knew you would look for her- I’m sure you were the last person she thought of before her tragic ending. God bless you

[@carcassraid]

Somehow, this is the first time I've heard about Esther and Dan. There's no question that she intended to return to base, where she could rest and then move on to a new journey. I believe that she hiked and climbed with the thought of Dan being there next to her. The fact that media outlets latched on to this as a 'murder mystery' or something... that's deplorable. Esther is the very best example of a kind person and avid explorer, now lost because of a terrible accident. Dan found her. That is so heartbreaking, but I'm so glad that he and her other loved ones have closure

[@MsMesem]

I think the smartphone contact provided a false sense of security; she did not feel alone so was less careful and was wearing those worn out boots!

[@elizabethmcglothlin5406]

Such a sad story. I'm glad she was found.

[@spunkycat6144]

At least she was loved dearly, happy, had hope in the future and was doing what she loved.

[@kenibnanak5554]

Early in this video I speculated about an accident during the hike. I have visited and hiked rough terrain solo several times and yes accidents are very possible, especially on hills and mountains. My experiences and observations are such that I no longer do solo cross country hikes, and strongly suggest anyone doing so bring a useful companion. Stuff happens and having someone to help can be really important.

[@lindawilson4625]

I am so sorry Dan was raked over the coals by everyone speculating. It was simply a bad accident that happens to the best of you. My heart goes out to Esther, Dan, and all their loved ones. Thanks, Kyle!

[@mime514]

Necrotizing fasciitis is a severe infection with one/multiple bacteria(usually staphylococcus or streptococcus), that causes the death of tissue(necrosis). It affects the fascia(the layer just under the skin). It is essentially a flesh eating disease, your tissues are attacked by the bacteria, they begin to form pustules and rashes, slough, blacken and eventually die. It is of course extremely painful. The bacteria enter your body through scratches, wounds, surgery sites or insect bites. This disease usually affects the immunocompromised(such as cancer patients, people with autoimmune conditions, chronically ill people, the elderly or people who just went through a serious bout of illness). Treatment consists of surgery(both to confirm the diagnosis and to remove the dead tissue), antibiotics to treat the infection and possible skin grafts. Depending on how advanced the infection is and how your body responds to the antibiotics, your chances of dying are between 20% or 80%(drug resistant bacteria can cause sepsis and multiple organ failure).

[@a.mie.533]

...sounds horrific...

[@LilyGazou]

More reason to keep up immunity strength.

[@dreadede]

That’s just a bunch more words he can’t pronounce 😂

[@mime514]

@@a.mie.533 it is, your tissues are dying and basically decomposing and you are conscious through that

[@momsterzz]

No one’s reading that wall of text dude

[@tamo9520]

This one really shot a pain through my heart. I got the impression, from their pictures, your story Kyle & Dan's tenacity & strength through this all that they really were the loving couple with the relationship that most of us dream about. Their smiles in their eyes in the pictures are genuine. All stories of lost & missing loved ones are a tragedy, but for some reason, this one has affected me more than others.

[@giggiddy]

Ummm actually they were getting tired of each other and decided to spend some time apart. Hence, this happened while she was alone. Sounds like everyone else's normal relationship. So not quite this fairytale that you dreamed up.

[@alpschild]

I truly believe that NO ONE’S life is as happy as they portray on social media. Come on.

[@leannemo7382]

I find that the truly happiest or most fulfilled people that I know, really don’t post much at all about their personal lives. They’re too busy living their lives. 😊

[@Celestein]

It's so tragic but at least it's great that she got to truly live and share an amazing life with a wonderful partner. Many people live for 80 years without living the life they really want. She left much too soon but definitely made the most of her days.

[@StevenG222]

What a heartbreaking story! Its painful to see someone that loved life so much gone way too early! I can only imagine what Dan went through, I have much respect for him for not giving up till she was home..that is true love!!

[@jumaris28]

I just love Kyle’s voice and how he narrates the missing hikers stories. Many Blessings to you love 💕 from Panama 🇵🇦

[@kkenneth100]

Could you imagine, he searched by his self so long and he finally found her. That is sooo sad. She was waiting for you!! My condolences Dan. To you and your families. Your a young man Dan. Your whole life is ahead oh you. Always remember the good times you guys had. She'll be waiting for you in the next life.

[@andrzejstrzeminski2960]

I am a retired surgeon and I saw two cases of similar " tissue eating bacteria". It's called Clostridium difficile, it's fairly common and it's very nasty, because it's anaerobic bacteria, meaning - it multiplies without presence of oxygen. That's why, after infecting subcutaneous tissue, mainly fat and muscles, it causes their necrosis within few hours. The only treatment is wide opening of all affected tissues of the hands and legs. Without operation infected people always die, after operation some of them may survive, but scaring thereafter is incredibly awful, not only from the aesthetic point of view, but also due to severe contractions it causes.

[@TeddyRumble]

How can it be very common but you've only seen two cases? C. Diff is common I suppose, but not the disease process you describe. Plus, would hyperbaric chamber help?

[@andrzejstrzeminski2960]

@@TeddyRumble Firstly, you didn't understand properly what I wrote. Genus Clostridium is very common and very pathogenic to people and animals. To this Genus belong so dangerous bacteria like Cl. botulinum and Cl. tetani, not to mention others, less known. Cl. difficile is well described, even on Wikipedia, so it's enough to open it and read it, instead of writing comments without basic medical knowledge. Secondly, in my almost 50 years of medical practice I saw two cases like this, one of them died, so death rate, in my calculations, would be 50%. Thirdly - these cases I experienced myself, were deteriorating like fire. Both of them involved one leg. On first examination they had swelling and pain up to the knee, but after cutting open the skin of the lower leg the infection was going even up to the groin. Thirdly - hyperbaric oxygen helps only if circulation is intact, but in infectious swelling of the subcutaneous tissue oxygen will never get there. Besides - there would be no time for such therapy - even if hyperbaric chamber was at hand. One should also remember that hyperbaric oxygen is toxic on the long run, but this is still another story concerning pathology of the ventilation. Hope, this will clarify the matter.

[@andrzejstrzeminski2960]

@@TeddyRumble I wrote a long explanation to your comment and it instantly disappeared. So I am not going to write again

[@shalsenburgerwhatsinaname1036]

Well this explanation isn't actually what was stated as Dan's version of the illness so I think you've gone off on a tangent .

[@brendaford4920]

I respect Dan for rising above the unfounded suspicion cast upon him from various press and putting in the time and effort to find Esther. If he hadn’t devoted his time to the search then when would anyone have discovered her at all? Dan brought Esther’s family closure and allowed for Esther to be returned home for the final time.

[@dianesilverstein6475]

Dan, sending my heartfelt condolences to you and all who loved her.

[@sandramacleod45]

The daily mail are the absolute worst

[@neerg63]

KZbin brought me here as a recommendation. I'm so happy it did. I'm so very impressed with this video, especially the ending. You're a beautiful person, Kyle. Subscribed; can't wait for more!

[@ar2043]

That's how I originally found him and I'm, like you, so glad as well. For once the algorithm did me a solid!!!!! Yay!!! 😁

[@LillibitOfHere]

I love that you choose cases that are teaching moments to keep people safe and that you donate and support donations.

[@TrueCrime_With_Sheila]

Him putting in that much effort really is so beautiful but so sad. Then the media, i dont even have words. I hope he has found peace.

[@roguetamlin]

I was just talking about this kind of thing on another video about Reed Jeppson in Utah. There are all kinds of theories on that disappearance but most likely he just got lost in the wilderness with his dogs. People get lost in the wilderness or fall and die. Even really skilled and experienced people. The only consolation here is that Dan was able to find her quickly and avoid more media harassment.

[@TeddyRumble]

Carry the 10 essentials. Matches, reflective mirror, and a survival whistle. And good shoes.

[@lynnfaulkner2706]

Thank you for producing what I consider a very necessary analysis of the disappearance of this fine young woman. The media jackals who hypped this story in such ugly ways should be ashamed of themselves for causing such pain to Esther's loved ones.

[@Zyryne1]

So many instances these days where people should be ashamed, and they never will be. Not a one of them. 😊❤

[@duudsuufd]

This is not 'journalism' as Kyle calls it, but it are the infamous British tabloids.

[@morethanamazed8210]

Hi, Dan. I'm very sorry for your loss. I know you are strong and will be okay.

[@davidstevensasidewayslook8831]

This tragedy goes to show how easy it is for things to go bad. I'm a 77 year old guy who has always hiked (and still do, but only within my limits). You don't have to fall far to break a leg badly. This would incapacitate you completely. Doing solo hiking, no matter how competent you are, is very risky and you would have to let someone know EXACTLY where you are heading and what time you will be back. This is all very sad and I'm sure this young lady was very competent.

[@catinthehat906]

You can now get reasonably priced handheld GPS devices that not only help you navigate but can geolocate you and allow you to send messages via the Iridium satellite system. Anyone going solo hiking in places like this should really carry one.

[@annmarierose1086]

It is amazing that the media latched on to their imperfect relationship. How many people have perfect relationships? I’ve had many imperfect relationships and yet never was disappearing a result.

[@itsjudystube]

Nobody said that it was imperfect

[@susanne1756]

Many disappearance are most likely falls. So sorry for your loss Dan ❤

[@sherriviz1055]

Love this channel. You are an amazing narrator for these stories. I appreciate you shedding light on all of these people.

[@lorimiller6091]

So sorry for your loss, Dan! RIP Esther!

[@Jolou_73]

I can’t imagine how he was feeling or what he was thinking when he found Esther’s remains. The fact he trekked over 700 miles to find her day and night is his true testament of his love for her and to give himself and her family some closure,. I am so sorry for Dan’s loss and I hope he has found peace. RIP Esther 😢

[@tat2atco]

Hiking alone in the wilderness is stupid....even if your Bear Grylis......Sad story.

[@lg9373]

Very sad she lost her life in this way. She was doing what she loved when she left this world, may her loved ones be comforted in knowing that.

[@tracyH1250]

Kyle, I love your channel for so many reasons, one of them being your compassion and another your honesty about pronunciation. Obviously I enjoy it because of the hiking stories but this one is especially sad 😢 you've made it so clear before how easily accidents can happen ~ how the media spun this to fit their narrative and sell more stories is despicable. Sorry for your loss, Dan. You're a good man and didn't deserve that treatment. RIP beautiful, free spirited Esther! 💜😔

[@joannerothque1548]

So sorry for your loss, Dan. You two looked so good together!❤

[@rebeccanorthern8996]

What a wonderful man he is! It just goes to show you that true love really exists. As sad as this story is, it teaches us something about commitment and love! God bless him for his heart and may she rest in peace!

[@rolfdenver]

Your production values and graphics are outstanding, as is your talent in storytelling. I’m sure it’s not easy being an outdoor-focused content creator but you are one of the very best. Thanks for what you do. (You are not just entertaining and informative but you save lives: for example, I’ll never solo hike without a beacon/communicator and will be more conservative in my risk assessments after watching your videos.)

[@Popi80s]

Dan , you had a beautiful love story. I know it's hard to lose it, but some people, probably most people, don't get to live a love like that ever. So hold on to those memories, keep hiking and doing what you love, and embrace nature with a clear heart, knowing that both of you could enjoy living the way you wanted. Hugs, from Argentina.

[@Catoftheday-d2q]

My favorite thing about coming to a channel early is watching the views slowly slowly climb up:3

[@rosemiller417]

That's the Price of High Visibility on Socials. People catch Interest. Storytellers/News pray on it. Drama sells best so the worst of them don't bother cause some. Sensational/reckless 'Reporting' is the worst and destroyed Lives for Profit in the Past. This Man was always clear and he knew the Dangers. 1 wrong Step and that's it, no matter how good you are. He did right and his determination and loyalty towards her and her Faith sound recommendable. I hope he recovers well from the loss and lives well in good health.

[@timeforcoffee485]

As they say, don't let truth get in the way of a good story.

[@dead2802]

Dan, You and Ester lived a handful of lives. So wonderful and perfect. You two even Look like soulmates and your smiles said it all! Wish the accident wouldnt have happened. Always see her smile, her voice happy w life, her eyes looking at her dreams come true! Bless you!

[@naaga7932]

Dave is a true legend. The mental fortitude it takes to continue searching while the media bashes you and actually finding her

[@PamelaEHunter]

Dan Colgate is a heart and soul hero to me. He’s a loving being with great depths of character and perseverance. My heart is full of appreciation for his hard task done so selflessly to bring answers about his beloved Esther. He did all that any human can do for another on this earth: go with them the last mile of the way, covering the sorrow of exiting with genuine generosity about the life lived. He’s a good man and my deepest sympathies for his loss. also thanks for sharing their story.❤️🙏🙏❤️