The Disappearance of Laura Macke, Olympic National Park 11/2022

[@PNWNature]

I beg anyone who's doing back country hiking like this; get a personal locator beacon!!! If you can afford the backpacking gear and permits, you can afford a beacon. They save lives.

[@johnnygorena5318]

That is exactly what I mentioned just a few days ago.., If not for you.,do it for the people that love you. So they can at the very least find you should you happen to get lost

[@MusicEchos]

It's ridiculous for someone to do this. It makes me think that people that do this are suicidal.

[@sammyday3341]

Good point. And the save time for rescuers.

[@chrisbinckes2732]

YES.... this should be a prerequisite to all hikers gaining a park permit... state law should take this up in order to save search and rescue's time and money....

[@Hojiii]

Yes. Please. 💙🙏

[@marktwain368]

It is astounding and gratifying that so many SAR agencies care to get involved in searches that may only be for ONE lone individual. These folks are truly heroic and really help define what is noble about America. Also, a shout out to YOU, Bryan, for being an outdoorsman who understands the risks and the joys of wilderness travel. You walk the talk. That makes us admire you as well as appreciate you, man. Blessings always!

[@johngilbert1325]

Possibly got disoriented, then off trail... It's easy to get disoriented even for experienced people. I've done it, felt panicked/disoriented, while I still knew where I was...in good weather. and I'm a backcountry professional. It's terrifying.

[@Annex-x1g]

So very sad and I hope they find her but wonderful real preseantation. Thank you for that.

[@bawattsyl]

I hope so too🙏 thank you for watching and your feedback🙏

[@foxforpeace7351]

I’ve camped in the Olympic National Park in summer and fall, but would never go solo so late in the year. It is so beautiful and wonderful hiking. I can only imagine what she had to face. My prayers for her family and thanks to all the teams that participated in the search. ❤️

[@lisacolbert5987]

I just left a very similar comment. Of course we’re not intending to be Monday morning quarterback jerks. But I grew up hiking , climbing and camping in the Olympics and over the years have wondered of people assume that , bc it’s a relatively small range , that they’re like baby-mountains (?) . But like any cave diver knows , if you were knocked unconscious and landed face-down in an inch of water … . I climbed Mt Constance the summer of ‘78 , There was a huge storm that took out all of the bridges on the Dosewallips River in a matter of a few hours that night. We were up on the side of the mountain when it hit. Those bridges had been largely built by the CCC Boys just after WW2 and some before that. We had to get airlifted out. That was July ! Forgive my ramble . It’s just sad . But I refuse to go up there anymore. Good weather or no.

[@mikeyoung9810]

@@lisacolbert5987 We all make mistakes in judgement, even those posting the criticism and lecturing us all and the reality is that so many do the same (prob some here now) and nothing ill happens. But when it does, be supportive and not critical. We can do nothing else after the fact except spread the word she is missing. For those suffering loss I hope for the best for you.

[@whitedragoness23]

A lot of hiking incidents or trips into the wild seem to have going late into the year as a common factor for some areas. I do believe that’s the main contributing factor for SOME missing :(

[@teijaflink2226]

Hopefully her accident can be a warning to others to be more prepared even if we don't know what exactly happened to her as her body has not been found.

[@kevinmalone3210]

I thought the same, it was too late to go hiking in the late fall, since winter storms can come early in the mountains.

[@patryk996]

Great video, Brian. Thank you for putting this together. I especially appreciate the survival information you provided -including the clip of night.

[@LKre-vi5oq]

Lost a family member (non-nuclear) who slipped and injured his head significantly. He lay prone for over ten hours on the trail, while a massive snowstorm dumped all over the mountains. He was a mountaineer, had worked for the forest service all through college, loved the outdoors. They found him in Spring. Tore apart his family, all of us. I still miss him to this day. I hope and pray this lovely lady is eventually found, for her family and friends. Rest now, Laura.

[@Firefy29]

I followed this case. Very Sad, and little to no clues. :( As I said I've been binge watching all your videos, but I hadn't seen this one. I hope you have a great holiday season!

[@bawattsyl]

Thank you, wishing you a happy holiday season too 🙏🙏

[@theravenloons5945]

I hiked the Enchanted Valley the end of September/ first of October in 2022. We were going to hike a loop of the valley but the weather wasn't cooperating and there were a few animal issues. - Bear activity near the old chalet in the Valley was high and reports were there were a dozen or more bears just on a particular stretch by the valley. While we were in camp one particular bear (very healthy and big) kept moving through the camps where people were eating (Never eat in your camp!!). He would move in, not necessarily being threatening/ direct, but as he moved forward people would move away. He was slowly edging into camps the people were eating in to search for anything they may have dropped. -He never came directly at people but would move in from the side slowly, munching on whatever was available on the way. We would all yell at him but he was clearly used to people yelling at him and it didn't phase him in the least. Not even noise makers. He eventually wandered down the trail but returned that night and visited a few tents though he never touched the tents, the people just heard him snuffling outside them. He got into a tree/shrub next to mine presumably for the little berries around 4 am. He was mostly just being a bear but a few people had encounters where either the bear was getting too close or the number of bears became dangerous (you can only watch so many with only 2 eyes in that level of vegetation). We were prepared for the weather and even bears but the nature of the bears and the sheer number combined with the weather that had turned had us leaving at first light. No hike is worth those two factors when they become a problem. We do carry a sat com/ PLB. I was able to connect to satellite in the valley itself after a bit but on the hike to it, it was spotty. We were 15 miles in from the trailhead north of the lake right by the old chalet. Also, around the area of Pyrites creek, there was a cat that came into camp - with several people in the camp, twice. It wasn't scared of people. It went to the river for a drink once and the second time just seemed to wander through the trees on the edge of the camp. It wasn't normal behavior but no one seemed to feel it was stalking. - Best I can explain it. It was like none of us were there. It felt odd so we hiked the rest of the way out rather than staying the night in camp. Some people stayed. The trail to Enchanted Valley is well-marked and the geography is straightforward; you are hiking in a valley. In and out. If she took a side trail towards another trail then I can't speak for the conditions, but Enchanted Valley towards the end of September would be as late as I would ever care to hike that trail. It isn't a good trail for beginners due to terrain and there are plenty of opportunities to hurt yourself, but a seasoned hiker should be ok. I can't imagine hiking it in snow; that is a nightmare scenario. And there WILL be bears. The only question is the number of/mood they are each in. Sorry for the length but if it offers anyone any insight I figured, why not. We may try for the loop hike off the Valley in 2023 but this time closer to mid-July. We'll keep our eyes out for/ signs of her. The supernatural has nothing to do with it. If you go far enough off-trail, which in many areas doesn't need to be more than a few feet, you can disappear entirely/ lose the trail. The vegetation is thick, slick, and the layout steep and rocky. With the river right there you may never hear someone calling for help. Most people disappear when they are alone, not when they are hiking with someone. If you get hurt/fall/become stuck off the trail you would be lucky if someone randomly passed by and heard you while you still had the strength to yell for help. Add bad weather/snow to the mix and your chances drop significantly. - On that thread, a serial killer would likely go for an easier trail. I can't imagine trying to drag someone on the Enchanted Valley trail, never mind the terrain around it. Though that isn't to say someone couldn't cause someone to disappear along the hike... but I doubt it.

[@eh3477]

Informative post and responsible approach to your outdoor adventures, thank you.

[@NPCHSN]

Thanks for that post. I read the entire thing, and I usually don’t.

[@AM-AnitaM]

Good post. Thanks.

[@AnyoneCanSee]

Hi Bryan. I read the post from Laura Macke's family on Facebook thanking the search and rescue and underneath several of her patients wrote about how much she meant to them and helped them. I wanted to include part of one message so your viewers knew what sort of a woman she was "Laura has been my therapist for about 6 months. I carry with me and try to emulate her empathy, unconditional positive regard, and validation. I will no doubt draw from her teachings in my future therapy practice. 🌞 I am glad to know she felt healing in nature." She had chosen a career helping others and loved nature. I know you care deeply about these missing people and I thought you might want to know she had a positive impact on many people.

[@wildmountainthyme4123]

Thank you for sharing these lovely words about Laura. She sounds like a wonderful compassionate person. Prayers to all her family, friends and of course to Laura.

[@sbrooke210]

Thank you for presenting some thing lovely about this one. Her family is reading these comments and I’m sure they are all as nice.

[@MickeyLeeBluebird]

Wonderful comment... It seems a lot of people really liked her.

[@charlottekey8856]

Why don't people carry Personal Locator Beacons?

[@katie195]

@@charlottekey8856 don’t think they need one, overconfident or they believe they are to expensive. It’s no city park out there. Women are particularly vulnerable. My sister would hike and camp in the back country in the 80’s.

[@sewistnotsewer]

I did this same hike with my boyfriend many years ago and we got unexpected snow. There was an emergency shelter in Enchanted Valley at that time - don't know if it's still there. We were snowed in for several days until it warmed up enough to hike out. If we hadn't found it I'm not sure we would have made it out alive. I pray Laura is found soon.

[@PhilAndersonOutside]

If you are talking about the Chalet, it still exists, though it's not in great shape.

[@betwixtandbetween2610]

My father in law went missing in that exact location 1 year 10 days earlier. There wasn't any snow yet in Duanes case, but a ton of rain. He was just out on a day hike. We never found any sign of him. We are still searching today.

[@33Jenesis]

That’s terrible:(. I hope he’s found soon, for closure…..

[@charlottekey8856]

Paulides Missing 411 series notices that stranges disappearances include "weather events" of particularly heavy rain or snow, often coming out of nowhere.

[@lamh5265]

I wonder if there are sinkholes or secluded underground caves that people fall into.

[@betwixtandbetween2610]

@La MH we've looked, and so far, we haven't found any. Doesn't mean there isn't.

[@betwixtandbetween2610]

@Charlotte Key it is very strange that they both went missing 1 year apart. They were both parked in the exact same location. It is a very small area. There isn't any cell service out in that area or cameras. It would be really easy for a serial killer to stalk victims and never get caught. I hope law enforcement is looking into all aspects since Laura's disappearance is identical to Duanes. The hike she was on is very well identified. It would be really hard for her to get " lost." Same for Daune. He spent more time out there in the woods than he did at home. It is highly suspect that we have never found any shred of clothing or backpacks. The only thing we found was a fruit cup container, which in itself is odd because Duane would definitely pack out any trash he used, he wouldn't just leave it on the ground in the middle of the woods. He was a leader of the Royal Rangers for his church for over 50 years and always taught the responsibility about leaving the forest with your trash. My mind has been racing with conspiracy theories since Laura was reported missing at the exact same location exactly 1 year and 10 days after Duane. If anyone is ever out in that area, please keep your eyes open. We appreciate any help. Even if we could find a single piece of clothing, it would help us with some sort of closure. Thank you all ❤️

[@Rose-co3cp]

I have been hiking by myself over the past year in the Shenandoah's without a beacon or satellite phone. There is recent missing hiker, James Cattley who disappeared in the Shenandoah's. They found his car on Skyline Drive at Turk Gap Parking on December 12th 2022. They found the backcountry permit and he started on 22 Sep and was to exit by 6 Oct 22. After seeing this Vid and the recent missing hiker, I am going to by a locator and use it for now on. I have taken chances long enough.

[@tislyworrell2446]

Thank you my dear

[@bevanbuckwheatshea5520]

Good idea and please keep safr

[@watchdog8058]

yes please buy one. safety first and your friends and family would not want to lose you!

[@rebeccaleegabbard]

You can get a good deal with REI, they go on sale and if you have a membership, they have extra sales and you get rewards

[@nancytestani1470]

Yes, you might as well, because all your hiking gear is not cheap either these days, so get one. Everything costs but this might get out of trouble

[@Eliel7230]

Thank you for your efforts and interest in all of these missing persons cases. I hope that they will all be eventually found. Such stories remind us that we shouldn't take what we have for granted. Stay prepared when treking out there.

[@lowelllarsen5947]

I’m glad you give advice in these videos- it’s advice that may save someone’s life

[@PhilAndersonOutside]

Thanks for making this Bryan. I made a video about her disappearance right when it happened, and considered joining a search group post-official SAR party. Just one piece of clarity, the snow wasn't heavy the week after Laura disappeared. It had mostly been rain, with bits of snow higher up on the surrounding ridges. But the trails up the valley were able to follow for numerous days after she vanished. The weather that turned SAR back wasn't heavy snow at first, just very cold rain, wind, minimal sunlight. The snow came gradually, in increasing waves. Time, and impracticality of survival, with understanding from her family, caused SAR to stop, not the weather. It had reached a point that unless Laura was somehow, some way, way off trail, had set-up her tent, plus sleeping bag, and had access to flowing water, without leaving a single visual clue anywhere, there was virtually no way anyone could survive that long. Night time temperatures in the upper 20's, daytime in the lower 30's. Constantly cold, wet, and dark. Laura had a fair amount of experience, including winter camping in Vermont. So it's not like she was a fool. Hardly at all. Though it may have been wise in retrospect to carry a PLB unit, since she was going solo. I personally do not like relying on technology at all, but you can always leave it buried deep in your backpack and never touch it, all the same. It's my belief that Laura ventured off trail, possibly at O'Neill Creek, or near Fire Creek, where boot-beaten paths and game side trails follow nearby streams. Very likely with her full pack. I believe she was then injured, possibly badly, and unable to do more than secure herself, where she perished as the weather decreased. A very minimal amount of evidence was found, and SAR did not disclose the location, giving me the impression it was early in the hike, and on the trail. It is possible she did venture all the way into the valley, all the way to the Chalet, and was lost or injured there. I just believe this is very unlikely. People should understand that while a trail goes along this valley, as well as a robust stream, the vast, heavily forested wilderness around it is enormous. One could venture just 100' off trail, set a pot of gold down, and have it not be discovered for years. If someone does venture into the Enchanted Valley in 2023 and wants more information, I do have a few visual items not widely reported on you could keep an eye out for.

[@edju9968]

very interesting and informative response. and a very thought provoking point about setting a pot of gold only 100' from a trail and might not be found for years, decades. thank you

[@markg3025]

You bring a level of compassion to all of these stories. I hope your injuries are healed up and you are feeling good health. Merry Christmas to all. 🎉

[@abbyarnold4477]

Oh please tree hugger .

[@markg3025]

@@abbyarnold4477 Trees are wonderful hug one and you will love it.

[@hushingsilence]

Merry Christmas Mark! 🎄

[@jerrylee8261]

Mark, don't understand why you were attacked for your sympathetic message. It's probably someone who desperately needs attention and they post messages such as these to hopefully on their part to get a response. Well, it worked. Abby can read these and giggle.

[@michaelturner5050]

Cool story bro

[@K9SARSHEPINOIS]

I am involved with search and rescue. In today's day and age I would have to say that to go out hiking the way she did without InReach technology is suicidal. It is definitely more affordable than ever. It is not a guarantee but it increases your probability of survival immensely. For the searchers having that information helps to lessen the stress of searching and makes searching considerably safer.

[@rockstarofredondo]

Is there any reliable data collection on how much these devices increase survival and rescue chances?

[@edju9968]

@@rockstarofredondo I'd imagine a simplistic answer would be that if you have one you have increased chances of being rescued, if only a 5 or 10% chance. conversely if you don't have one your chances go wayyy down.

[@nancytestani1470]

@@edju9968 make sense..take care..

[@danmcqueen5295]

A similar thing happened to a beloved local physician a few years ago, only it was a ski trip. He was an experienced outdoorsman. They found him in the spring. So sorry for this lady. I've made mistakes in the backcountry. They're totally unforgiving.

[@LTJC70]

Wow!!! Showing how dark and creepy scary it is for those who are lost is terrifying and def a great way to bring home exactly what these people have/are going through!!! I wish we could just find everyone and bring them all back to their families!!! Im so so so sorry for all of them and their family/friends who go through this ordeal !!! 😢❤

[@Onelightoftheworld]

I’ve been binge watching Survivorman and it’s really put things into perspective. It would be terrifying to be lost, and not have shelter or fire.

[@mello3214]

My heart and prayers goes out to her family !! So tragic. Also great detailed merciful job you always bringing these stories to light !!! Thanks and God bless you ❤🙏

[@JoannaRedmond]

You do such a fantastic job covering these cases. Your voice is so soothing, too. I hope you're recovering, and if you're ever in Northern Ca, I would love to meet up for a hike! All the best this holiday season to you and yours.

[@teresap.5991]

Thx Bryan and have a blessed holiday ☺️❤️ may 2023 be a better year for us all!?! ✝️🙏💞

[@Dubmajicks]

If things are wet and you need a fire, FIND a ceder tree, That will make fire. also: Carry a candle and chemical fire-starters. Cotton balls dipped in Vaseline, a flattened wax milk carton and cigar-size newspaper logs that have been dipped into melted paraffin make good fire-starters. That shit you pull out of the dryer vent, store that up in ziplock bags, that shit is GOLD.

[@janewolf4541]

Thank you Bryan for this story, and also thanks to the SAR teams. Laura left this earth far too early. The area looked dangerous, and the weather is always a game changer.

[@catsmith233]

Was she found?

[@jollyandwaylo]

@@catsmith233 It is still winter and there is no reason for rescue crews to risk their lives at this time of year after they couldn't find her in November.

[@tmcgee1614]

​@@catsmith233not yet It is now Oct 1 of 2023

[@catsmith233]

@@tmcgee1614so a full year has passed and nothing😢

[@tmcgee1614]

@@catsmith233 no, she has not yet been found. So sad.

[@willowquinn4114]

I really enjoy your channel. I love stories about missing people, and your presentations are nice to listen to. I love your compassion as well.

[@mish4164]

Thanks for the video… especially clever of you completing it on your phone, what magnificent views of your country. Very sad story. Love from Melbourne- 🇦🇺 Australia

[@charlesdial7152]

I'm glad you showed us how dark it is in the woods at night, can't do it, hearing strange noises..etc.

[@tdiler12]

I think the dark woods are peaceful , its all in your head the fear Much Scarier in civilization w all the crazy people so close

[@jobbybohnson6818]

Thank you Bryan Happy Holidays to you and yours.

[@hushingsilence]

Thank you for doing a story on Laura. Prayers for her family. Warmest wishes for a wonderful holiday, Bryan.

[@ZeldaRosenthal]

Bryan, you sound great and vibrant. Thanks for covering this. Keep up the fine work. Happy 2023!❤️

[@01baia]

Thanks for another great report. I cannot imagine the fear and pain Laura may have suffered. 😥 I hope you are getting better every day and that you can relax and enjoy the festive season. Happy Christmas!

[@summerrain7956]

I can't imagine what these families go through. Prayers to all of them🙏Happy holidays and God bless you😊Stay safe out there😊

[@krisrose219]

I wish people wouldn’t go off alone. Even experienced. There is usually safety in numbers. So sorry to her family and thank you for an excellent presentation of this story. Happy new year to everyone ❤

[@vivian2217]

Easier said than done. Can be extremely difficult finding someone to hike with that you trust. Similar walking pace, and had the time to do it. Wish she would've had an emergency beacon with her. My deepest condolences and sympathy to her family and friends. I loved to hike by myself and anyone could have been in that situation.

[@krisrose219]

@@vivian2217 yes you’re right 😊

[@Loralanthalas]

I wish people weren't so awful to hang around. - Back to the wilderness and away from avid stupidity.

[@doggonenomads]

Keep in mind not everyone has people they can hike/travel with

[@karenmays8889]

This is truly heartbreaking. We hiked in the park in August. It's so beautiful but very unforgiving. You can get lost easily and become disoriented. My heart goes out to her family.

[@carolineheffernan7368]

Hey Bryan, thanks for another great video. Your help and videos must mean so much to the people who are missing loved ones. GOD BLESS YOU!!

[@shirley6488]

The pics are so beautiful. The waterfalls looked like a piece of heaven

[@esterherschkovich6499]

Thanks so much for your effort 🙂🌟☘RIP to this Lady....feel for all families and friends who loose a loved one this way.

[@carolyearsley]

Never swim alone! Never hike alone! Always use the "buddy system"., at least one other person. When will people learn?

[@oreosandsoymilk5435]

I'm so sorry to hear this story. She had such a warm and kind smile. My thoughts are with her family.

[@laurametheny1008]

Thanks Brian. Merry Christmas. Stay safe🙏💔🎄

[@nickyionta]

Have a happy and holy Christmas Bryan! Cheers from Glasgow!🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

[@sweetds1]

Hi Bryan You have such a calm and soothing voice. Love listening to you. Merry Christmas

[@beaulieuc8910]

As a woman, I just wouldn't go alone in that environment, be it weather or just the risk of being attacked by men or animals I've been in wild places but I went out in a group.

[@Loralanthalas]

Girl please. You do it every damn day in the city with FAR more men.

[@jollyandwaylo]

Have you ever been in that area? I would find it hard to believe a human predator would pick such a place since so few people go there especially by themselves. A city would be far more dangerous.

[@alibenkahn5092]

As a woman I go everywhere! If you're so afraid of being attacked learn martial arts/self defence. Don't add to the fears that keep women from doing what the want and allow men to dictate their life possibilities.

[@MrNoName7474]

Every time I go camping alone, there are spooky noises at night. Like straight out of a horror movie. Coyotes? Whispering/echoes and sounds of footsteps right outside my tent? Some guy playing actual horror sounds/songs on repeat through the night?! Still unharmed physically tho. 10/10 would go camping again alone.

[@IntriguedLioness]

This is the first video on your channel and I clicked on this because I currently live in Seattle and when I moved to the PNW two years ago I spent a lot of time hiking the Cascades and Olympic National park. I've done solo treks all over the world and I wouldn't necessarily hike Olympic National Park solo. Unlike so many national parks that have a lot of facilities and Roads Olympic National Park is just a big blob of beauty. And while that's a good thing only experienced hikers and even then I would suggest a buddy for your first trek in the area should even attempt it. It doesn't look dangerous but you're literally surrounded by forest and it's very difficult in case you have an emergency. I remember seeing this on the news here in Seattle and also on all the forums for hikers. A very sad case.

[@chasjetty8729]

Thanks again friend.

[@bettyannsworld514]

Thank you Bryan for all the hard work you put into these videos! You are very much appreciated. 😊

[@ScrambleLynne]

Love you Brian, so humble and caring.. the world needs more of yous!

[@iskuhiboyadjian3495]

Another great video!!! Sending wishes for a peaceful and happy holiday season!!🌲

[@mandyrobinson6262]

Merry Christmas Bryan ❤️from Nottingham 🇬🇧

[@tailgunnerhikes4703]

I hiked this same trail 2 weeks prior to her disappearance. The trail is lower elevation and snow along her intended route is measured in inches, not feet at time of her trip. I recall the weather at time of search not being pleasant but something one prepared for October hiking in Pacific Northwest should be able to handle. The trail follows the river and valley walls prevent you from getting too far from trail or river. I don't believe they ever found her campsite, which means she was not hunkered down with injury. I have my own speculation of what happened but no evidence to back it up so won't state it. There are three videos on my channel of this area. April 2021 video would give best feel for area.

[@steviechampagne]

what is your speculation of what happened? was she kidnapped by criminals? or did she encounter an aggressive bear/sasquatch?

[@catsmith233]

I would like to know too

[@BrianCadwell]

Yes. This is a very low elevation hike in the Olympics. I've done it in mid-November. You are way more likely to get washed away by torrents of rain than encounter a snow storm. I don't think this year was any different there?!?

[@tailgunnerhikes4703]

@@BrianCadwell I believe the weekend she had her permit for was snow free but Enchanted Valley got its first snow of the year during search and rescue operations. Doubt snow extended down to Pyrite Creek which was camp listed on her permit.

[@frisco61]

Definitely sounds like she ran into a psychopath. I have male relatives who never go out without being armed, I just can’t fathom women going out completely alone, no coms, no dog, no weapon. Why?

[@joeannholzer1832]

Thank you for all you do. 👍❤️

[@lealovesthesea]

Great to hear your voice.

[@bretthines1020]

God Bless her and Keep her. We’re in Okanogan County and those storms caught everyone and every animal off-guard; the relentless snow followed by a plunge in temps. I prayed so much. We’re still dealing with it. Above Freezing today, praise God. May she and her family be at Peace.

[@geechyguy3441]

Well back in October it wasn't so bad though, I hiked this trail a week after she went missing there was hardly any snow, it got pretty damn cold at night but expected for the time of year. Her disappearance is definitely a mystery and we can't just attribute that to weather.

[@Loralanthalas]

If I google Oct 2022 Seattle weather, I can see there was no storm. It was in the 50s. It rainded one day out of 5.

[@user-on8wz1dt9g]

You did so good on your pronunciation of the tribal names! 😊 Sounded great!

[@mngirl5437]

Thanks for the great video 👍 I hope the new year is kind to you ❣️

[@mindyweeks1211]

Great job on the wreath. Have a Merry Christmas! Prayers for the Macke family.

[@Theylieohio]

In today’s technical world, there’s absolutely no reason not to carry a tracking device. If hiking is your life and you do it on a regular basis, please please get something that tracks where you are!

[@nickyblue4866]

Bring a fire arm as well

[@Tina06019]

It’s a very good idea, but Garmins are very expensive and not everyone can afford one. I hike without one, although I would buy own if I were going out on less well-traveled trails.

[@beadblaster9508]

Zoleo is less than 200 dollars and work very well

[@KaliKali-hv9bt]

@@Tina06019 it’s your life on the line though.. you can get some tracking device That doesn’t have to be Garmine.

[@journeysalkebulan]

@@Tina06019 Garmins aren't more expensive than your life so you choose what is important to you and your life and well-being!

[@rainernolywaika4224]

Hypothermia can settle in your body fast once you get soaked with heavy wet snow . I got soaked like that on an autumn storm in Canada , luckily I kept walking 24 hours long over 20 miles back to the Trailhead . Driving back to the Motel and took a hot shower. People usually start getting totally lost and wander off in false directions, die.

[@robinsavard84]

Bryan you are the kindest man and I appreciate your thoughtful words towards the family.

[@louisevad6091]

It’s hard to know what happened. My heart goes out to family and all those involved. I hope she didn’t suffer out there. Growing up in the northwest I spent a lot of my youth in the park in high country lakes in the spring and summer. I see the allure. Never solo. I understand why people go solo and they all know the risks so I’m ok with their choice. It’s all Gods country out there. So your never alone if you choose not to be. It’s sounds like she lived a good life with purpose and left this life doing what she loved.

[@sovverynn]

Hey Bryan great to see another upload :)

[@UnknownSpirit222]

I go on solo trips to the mountains & islands. It always worries me that anything could happen & all the people who come up missing. I hope there’s closure to this case soon.

[@Jasapan-u4s]

You sound lots better! You do a fantastic job!

[@jaymontgomery3330]

At time of her trip it was heavy rain at the valley floor where she was hiking. Rivers and creeks would have been running high, did she accidentally get swept down river? Been to Enchanted Valley many times, hard to get lost in this narrow steep valley, you're always within ear shot of river that the trail runs along.

[@marktwain368]

Entirely plausible explanation. Rivers are far more dangerous than people think.

[@dlvox5222]

Grew up in Washington. My grandfather worked for Weyerhaeuser for 42 years. As kids we had behind the gate company property access to 10’s of thousands of acres of pristine uninhabited back woods. I have some stories.

[@tislyworrell2446]

Pray tell

[@marktwain368]

If they involve the Sabe, send 'em to Steve Isdahl at The Facts About How to Hunt channel on YT.

[@TrimansWife]

Hikers should always expect the unexpected! Always!

[@janjohannessmith7033]

Very sad 😭 about Laura, prayers.

[@audibjornsson6107]

Thank you 😊

[@shirley6488]

Bless you this holiday season. Hope your feeling stronger every day.

[@Swanky95472]

Wow, this is just so sad. I hope someday that her body can be recovered.

[@janetpitts7302]

Thank you!! Happy New Year!!

[@linisin2083]

Just as beautiful and amazing nature can be it is also unpredictably Brutal. The pursuit of happiness is Riddled With risks. But Dying doing what you love. Is a kind of bitter sweet feeling. She is no longer stuffering. She's somewhere far away from here. And I hope her family can seek peace If anything Else. And be proud of what an amazing Person They were able to experience.

[@jerrylee8261]

Yes, after that horrifying experience on our plane, she is now safe, painless and happy on a much better plane.

[@skeptigal2785]

These women are a lot braver than I am! I will hike solo only on "urban" trails (woods within city parks); not out in the wilderness. And even then I have my moments!

[@annar.1275]

Thank you for another great video. So sorry to hear about Laura, she seems like a great person.

[@yolandagarcia-qt1le]

My prayers for the family!

[@nancytestani1470]

Gorgeous scenery..wow..

[@maryelizabeth7528]

Bryan, I'm glad I came across your video this evening. You sound so much stronger than earlier this year. I hope you are well, and have a blessed new year!

[@lisadabbs2181]

People that take unnecessary risks should get an insurance to pay for the searching expenses. Lots of people put their life in danger trying to rescue clueless people like this.

[@decafmocha211]

Don't hike alone especially in a place like Olympic National Park. Rest in Peace Laura

[@judysweatman7501]

Carry a SAT phone, a personal locator beacon, write out your itinerary..leave this in your car and tell friends and family… don’t travel alone and don’t separate from the friend or group. Keep your eye on the weather and carry clothing for the unexpected. Keep matches and your phone in a plastic/waterproof bag or container. I am sure there is alot more stuff we should do in order to stay safe, but this is some of the more important stuff. 🙏🙏🙏🙏 for Laura and her family, and anyone else whose gone missing….

[@conifergreen2]

Bring a firearm too.

[@dizzylizzy6571]

🥺🥺🥺 So sorry for this poor lady and her family and friends. I hope they find her someday. 💔💔💔

[@MatildasMama]

i wrote this last post but i’ll say it again SO happy you’re back 🥰

[@janisoconnor6881]

You did a very good job and told it with respect and kindness.

[@keithbell9348]

I am not an experienced hiker in the wilderness, so if I need to be critiqued for my following comment, then I need to be critiqued. Hiking out in the wilderness, under "normal" circumstances implies that the weather pattern is predictable, all within the seasonal time frame, allowing for a margin of sudden weather changes. So you go out having a familiarity of what the conditions will be like, drawing from your experience. However, these times are anything but "normal". Climate change has altered the usual weather conditions, so that one may have to take that into consideration so that preparing for the unexpected, TRULY MEANS preparing for the unexpected! My prayers are for her and her family!

[@TheMattTrakker]

You've been indoctrinated on the "climate change" boogie man. (Climate change is a poor term to use, as the climate on earth has been changing since day 1)

[@karendobbs8153]

This is sad. I hope she’s found alive, even though it doesn’t sound encouraging. Such a sad case.

[@lindasd7591]

So sad.....prayers for the bereaved loved ones 🙏.

[@merrivoelker2531]

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you also

[@bonniecraft8279]

So thankful your health is good now. Merry Christmas, Blessings in the N ew Year love from AR

[@CDAFishboy]

One point of conflicting info. I read early on that she started Day 1 in a significant rain storm. There was info on significant snow in the lower elevations. She sent a message the first evening she was staying an extra night. From what I read, I was looking at a tributary she would have needed to cross. Insignificant in low flow conditions but not after a couple of days of rain. I was keeping up with the story until the search was called off. Ohm, and everything written indicated air search was really hampered those first critical days. And the resources available for search and rescue is much more than most mountain ranges. But there are a lot of lost hikers in these mountains.

[@eh3477]

All great points. And people have gotten serious hypothermia in the Olympics all 12 months of the year. Which can kill even above freezing people sometimes have insufficient warm and waterproof gear, and get cold, unable to warm up, and become confused or worse. The trib crossing is a big question. But I'm not sure there are many seriously lost hikers in the National Park.

[@jeanninegrant]

So sad for Laura and her family. Winter came early to the Highlands of Scotland early as well this season. We just can't predict what weather conditions will be. Be prepared everyone.

[@islandbirdw]

I live on Olympic peninsula The weather was nasty in October freezing temps just before Halloween, then worse on the 19th of November freezing temps wind chill and ice storm

[@PNWCagey-Dub]

I hike around there quite a bit. That storm would have been horrible to be in. I was at home and couldn’t believe it was snowing in October. This is so sad.

[@tailgunnerhikes4703]

It was not snowing the weekend she had her permit for. The first snow fell the following week during search and rescue operations. Note that Bryan states his footage is from Serria's; several hundred miles away. Later, in video shows view from Anderson Pass looking down into Enchanted Valley, 3 miles beyond her stated turn around point.

[@PNWCagey-Dub]

@@tailgunnerhikes4703 it was at my house.

[@MayaRaimondo]

As soon as I saw the map of the area, I was saddened. I’m sure you guys know Dave Paulides and his mission. The area, the weather & nature itself are something to be reckoned with. Then there’s the unknown. Did they find ANYTHING at all? If you can’t afford a personal locator beacon or sat phone at the very moment, do get RECCO & a GPS watch. We lost a good person. My condolences to Laura’s family and all who knew her. 🥺🥀♥️

[@Ginasgusa]

I am an avid hiker. There have been an upsurge of solo hiking especially for females in the hiking community. I sometimes hike solo but never on a trail that I am not familiar and I chose popular trails. Beyond that, I mostly hike in groups. Summer hiking and winter hiking on the same trail is not the same. First off, we checked the weather up right till the morning of the hike. No reason to take unnecessary risks. Weather changes are serious and real. Such a sad event that can be prevented.

[@bawattsyl]

Gina, thank you for your comment. Honestly aside going out with search and rescue I usually hike alone but meet up with others at camp for the night.. but I never go out alone without my satellite device. And I've only been hiking and camping a fair amount in the cooler months. I definitely need more experience in those Temps. Thank you for watching and your feedback🙏happy holidays!

[@dirtrider9268]

I would assume she had a problem in the river and an electronic device does not often help in moving water when you are swimming for your life.

[@bawattsyl]

@@dirtrider9268 yes I had that happen to me when I fell in the west fork of the Carson River during spring and all my devices were useless and I broke 3 ribs. Crazy!

[@a.phillips6892]

Uuugghh, I’m always tempted to go alone, but never have because there’s so much that can go wrong. Nature is so beautiful, and really draws you in, but it’s a double edged sword. Go fully prepared, and leave a hike plan and definitely take a buddy! So sorry for those who loved her🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻

[@jphiking]

FYI it’s Clallam County, not Callahan County.

[@lovelight6973]

That's so scary how quickly nature and weather changes. I'm an EMT. I drive all over Oregon. It's crazy how dark, cold and scary can get in rural Oregon. I live on the Washington side. I'm not used to it. Outside the city and suburbs it doesn't take much of the further you go out it becomes very isolated very quickly. Hope you have a wonderful holiday! I hope your recovering from your injuries. Take care ❤️

[@elizabethheyenga9277]

I live in Eastern WA right next to the Oregon border. It is cold and wild and things change quickly as you say.

[@lovelight6973]

@@elizabethheyenga9277 I bet. I drove out there once with some friends in college. It's very beautiful during the day. We didn't really drive at night so I didn't have that experience.

[@Jackieblue66]

I wish people would stop doing these things a lone. Doesn't matter if your experienced or not or even a man or woman. To much going on in these national parks.

[@Loralanthalas]

Because bad things only happen if you're alone.