The Most Dangerous Man in Appalachian Trail History (many victims)

[@keithlea6804]

In the 80s i was in the navy and put in for leave to go hike part of the Appalachian trail. My leave was denied by my captain because the fbi had issued a warning to military officials about suspected serial killers using the Appalachian trail as a hunting ground. Always thought it was odd that the fbi warned military personnel on leave to stay off the trail but not the public. This guy is not the only one to hunt this trail.

[@dennisyoung4631]

Yes, *hunting.*

[@richardcranium3579]

Carry everyday every where

[@charlesprice7608]

@@richardcranium3579 the life you save may be your own! 🇺🇸

[@jasmine0354]

Wow! Scary !

[@kimmy4714]

@ Keith Lea : Oh my gosh! Reading the part where you mentioned how the FBI only issued a warning to military officials instead of also including the public which I'm sure were the main hikers that would follow & explore the many trails that is in the Appalaichan mountains is not only peculiar it's actually an extreme failure to protect the many innocent people, but also a massive failure to PREVENT any future murders from occurring. Wow just wow, it's a horrific failure all round by the FBI, pretty disgraceful overall. I'm glad however that your captain gave you a big NOPE for your leave, in doing so perhaps (all though you'll never know, but who'd want to find out?) preventing & avoiding what could of been a very gruesome & untimely death on your behalf by some crazed serial killer.

[@scowler7200]

The way those two escaped was just top-level teamwork.

[@brianjohnston6132]

you'd be even more amazed if you say the road they had to come down, and all while bleeding and unsure if Smith was following them. Scott is my brother and Sean is one of my best friends.

[@debby705]

​@@brianjohnston6132Wow, you and your family must have been shell-shocked. I was so relieved to hear they bravely escaped despite their injuries and lived to tell what happened. You must be so proud. As for the people responsible for letting that piece of..... out of jail after only serving 15 years, they deserve to be charged with murder, or at least attempted murder, makes me so mad

[@vinnievenus3570]

@@debby705 It’s unfortunate that it happened . Both Scott and Sean survived though. That’s great. One thing about this crime story I feel needs clarification. In this video , and others on this individual named randy smith? It implies that only crazy’s live in tents. I feel that’s a mistake. To say everyone who ever lived in a tent is crazy simply because this guy or perhaps a few other people living in tents acted strangely is absurd. That’s like saying “ anybody who ever kindly picked up a hitchhiker “ and gave a hitch hiker a ride out of cold weather, is really a crazed killer. You don’t label everyone crazy who picks up hitch hikers. Because it’s obvious not everyone whose given a hitch hiker a ride is a crazy killer. That’s totally. The same as it’s also totally obvious ‘“ not everyone whose ever sleptmeekly in a tent is a psychopath. Labelling everyone a psychopath who live in tents simply because a few bad people go crazy in tents , is ridiculous. Not everyone who live in tents are crazy. That’s obvious. Call a spade a spade on that note. In other words. Thank you. Now. On that note . And Godbless those who read this comment. Touché.

[@jamespeters8601]

“The most dangerous man on the Appalachian trail”…that we know about.

[@aspiceronni4462]

Lol. Yeah the most dangerous man on the Appalachian Trail SO FAR...

[@shanghunter7697]

@@aspiceronni4462 Well now, YOU'RE being watched VERY closely !!

[@aspiceronni4462]

@@shanghunter7697 😂

[@teresawhitstine]

Everybody up that way in the Appalachian mountains are more kind, welcoming and loving than anybody on earth.. those folk get a bad name because of 1 or idiots.. but all of the people up that way are great people, and would make sure you were ok and help you with anything you need.. color wouldn't matter, gender wouldn't matter, beliefs wouldn't matter, those people are the best people i ever met.. in my entire life, and im 42 years old now.. the Appalachian mountains trails are about 2 n half hours from my home, grandfather mountain.. gorgeous up that way, the blue ridge parkway, you can see all the clouds and fog coming off the great smokey mountains, its absolutely gorgeous.. gotta be one of the most gorgeous places on planet earth 🌏.. im lucky to have been born and raised around the area.. born in gastonia nc.. about 30 minutes from Charlotte, and even Charlotte is only about 2 to 3 hours from the Appalachian mountains.. those mountains run all way from almost the bottom of the USA, all the way up to new york snd main.. thats 1 long ass mountain top.. 😆..

[@harriettemacy7399]

Haha! Right

[@thedeathstar420]

Whenever I’m hiking. I’m scared of fellow humans a lot more than nature. Always puts me on edge whenever I run into someone while hiking

[@Blacksheep-Ba-Ba]

Me too. I used to always hike alone. No more. Too dangerous- especially with so many rogue homeless. At least not with out a g un.

[@James-ux5kv]

Great thinking keep it up. Humans are many more times dangerous the nature.

[@Mike-mn8wy]

@Pat Luxor 😂

[@Gizziiusa]

@@Blacksheep-Ba-Ba and around 2 medium to large sized dogs that can "handle things" if need be.

[@Blacksheep-Ba-Ba]

@Pat Luxor the A Trail.. 😁

[@exmarkrider6509]

I graduated high school in Giles in 1972. I remember i had a shop class around the 8th or 9th grade with Randall Lee Smith. He sat right behind my desk. He was quiet and seemed to be like any other kid of that age. How things changed. I know all of the areas of that county quite well. Glad these 2 men survived their injuries.

[@beaulieuonnp593]

yikes

[@susanalexander6721]

I knew 2 suspected serial killers as a child and teenager. Both are in prison, have been for many years. Can't help but think about it still. They didn't "work" together, totally separate murders. Killers of women.

[@thorazine0076]

Good thing he didn't try to jam a pencil in your ear. I'm sure he thought about it.

[@DiodeMom]

Do you know anything about his family life? His upbringing? Just wondering if effed up circumstances made him into Lyin Randall or if he just was a born killer.

[@xy4489]

Cool story bro.

[@ryankinghikeandfish]

I hiked by dismal creek falls a few days before this happened, 2008 was a messed up year on the trail. A lot of stuff went down without a ton of publicity. There was I guy that we ran into at partnership shelter with his “daughter “ turned out he kidnapped her. The trail isn’t Disney land, people forget that.

[@es0x]

that's why I go to places where I don't see anyone for 200km

[@notquiteultralight1701]

Wow!! Yeah i had never heard about that!

[@rockscousteau]

This is the closet thing you can get....to like being in 1850. Not really any law way out on the trail. It is not a place for kids....or women. Unless a man is around.

[@kurkgarro2341]

Arm yourselves. don’t leave home without it.

[@ordyhorizonrivieredunord712]

@@es0x 🦉

[@lukasmakarios4998]

Always sign the trail registers and put the date. Every shelter should have one. If it doesn't, that should be a red flag. Report it to local trail clubs and to the ATC. The register is your record of having passed thru the trail, even if you don't spend the night. Please record any suspicious activity or unsafe conditions. That will help us all stay safe. Thank you.

[@keastymatthew2407]

Grow up. Protect yourself, dont wait for the register to back you up😮

[@lahicks9773]

Wouldn't the killers have access to the registry and then know you are there?

[@lahicks9773]

@@keastymatthew2407 i only posed a question. I can and will protect myself.

[@brianjohnston6132]

Scott Johnston is my brother and Sean Farmer is one of my best friends in the world. I actually took the photo of Sean shown at the 9:30 mark. You told their story well. I'll never forget that day, or the following morning when we found out it was Randall Lee Smith who shot them. Please know Scott and Sean are both doing fine today. I'm happy to answer any questions that I can about the incident, so feel free to ask.

[@jamalydude]

Can you lightly overview the incident

[@blickluke]

Did they ever go fishing or camping on the trial ever again?

[@brianjohnston6132]

@@blickluke my brother still camps at the same campground where the incident happened. He says he refuses to let it mess with his head like that, so he purposefully still goes there.

[@cj6884]

I'm glad they survived!

[@brianjohnston6132]

@@jamalydude in short, they were shot by Randal Lee Smith - the man who murdered two hikers along the same area of the AT in 1981 and got out of prison after serving his sentence. Amazingly, they made a miraculous escape and, in a final ironic turn, it was Smith who ended up dying. My brother and friend, who both still have bullets in their bodies to this day from the incident, and are both doing fine.

[@mountainman.4478]

I just finished the PCT, and I met two more hikers. One was blind the other had one leg. They still finished the trail. I was amazed and hiked with them, for the last 27 days. Very rewarding!

[@victoracosta5482]

Congrats on doing the pct.. my life goal is to do the same. Hopefully one day... 👍

[@gregbors8364]

You just finished the PCT… in February? 🤔 Maybe by “just,” you meant last summer (?)

[@mountainman.4478]

@@gregbors8364 Hi Greg, I did mean last summer. even though I did start earlier than most. to avoid the heat. It was still hot.

[@gregbors8364]

@@mountainman.4478 Smart man.

[@wideopenthrottl]

How the hell do you hike blind? I call BS.

[@АнтонЛеднёв-и1я]

The worst animal you can encounter in the woods... is a human.

[@BreakingFreeOffGrid]

Totally agree!

[@Errcyco]

Anywhere really, we kill cause we’re evil. Animals do it for food mostly.

[@Lot_2023]

Humans are not animals.

[@vickiegibson2920]

@@Lot_2023 when they are killers they are mad dogs. So yes killers are animals.

[@nickyblue4866]

You don't need to prove motive to prove someones guilt... you just need to prove the person did it. Thank God those two men survived.

[@GC-ps9mn]

Yes but motive does help determine the difference between 1st and 2nd degree murder and manslaughter. This might have been what the prosecution was referring to.

[@joshmanwaring3848]

@@GC-ps9mn legally... yes

[@AlphaQHard]

@@GC-ps9mn Who cares? Just take the rat out back and turn him into fertilizer

[@Dancingonthesun]

You do need motive though. Motive is the difference between manslaughter (no minimum punishment in many regions) and murder (many years minimum punishment).

[@anthonyedwards9100]

​@@GC-ps9mn Premeditation is the difference between first and second degree homicide, not motive. But I get your point.

[@fvsmith]

In my opinion, if a person takes another persons life without just cause, then he forfeits his life.

[@donbrecker8982]

That makes too much sense, the scumbag lawyers and judges wouldn't make their money

[@fvsmith]

@@donbrecker8982 Then they should change professions…ya think?

[@shanghunter7697]

@@fvsmith Don't know what donald said but he sure did leave in a hurry.

[@Jeffersonian1975]

Agreed sir

[@surfrat8884]

An eye for an eye.

[@beckyleheny8636]

Years back hikers on the AT were calling Pearisburg Va., Perishburg because of this nut case. Thanks for putting up the great stories of the AT! Congrats on the 50,000!

[@JohnMChew]

Funny. We called Baltimore harm city instead of Charm city.

[@Tater4200]

Lived here my entire life...all I can tell you is do NOT go into the dam woods without packing some heat....for animals AND people..be prepared people. Exercise your rights

[@BeKind2AllKinds]

So dramatic.

[@CosmicCourtOfLaw]

The forest is the home to animals, not us.

[@johnaustin209]

@@CosmicCourtOfLaw ALWAYS one...🤦‍♂

[@CosmicCourtOfLaw]

@@johnaustin209 I could say the same to you, except it’s not one but the majority - sadly. THE ANIMALS OWN THE FOREST AND SEAS - not us!!!

[@johnaustin209]

@@CosmicCourtOfLaw You're talking outta your a**, Nature-Karen.

[@RegrettablyLongwinded]

The two guys who were fishing have such a badass getaway story. For anyone who wants to know more about this serial killer, The Casual Criminalist did a longer piece on it.

[@harriettemacy7399]

Thanks

[@tomburress4928]

Definitely love the Fact Boi and all his channels, I thought this sounded familiar lol

[@whatmyohmy]

@TheIamyourmother Thank You for the information. I' am a little weary about hearing more about this but will have to see what this person has to say about it. I was a teenager when Sue an Bob were killed! I lived at the place a group home in Ellsworth Falls Maine that they were both counselors at the time. Bob was doing the hike for his moms charity! And was engaged to another person that had worked as a counselor there. What people don't know and it was wrong. Was the fact that Randall was only charged with Sue's death not Bobs! The prosecutor thought that there wasn't enough evidence and at least wanted to make sure he did go to prison. So they charged him with Sue's! I found out Years ago that the prosecutor regretted not going for a longer sentence. He told his son those words! It is because of this incident that I will never camp in the woods again! Not even with major protection! The reason Randall died was because the police took him out of the hospital before he was healed up from the accident! But Yes, it's great his gone. But it would of been great to see him in prison where he should of been for the rest of his life! Sue and Bob live on in the wonderful memories she gave us teenagers! She would sing and play the guitar to us girls before we went to sleep. And she loved making her Homemade lemonade by putting it outdoors in the sun. And Bob was always ready to help you with what ever you needed!

[@Beni-pj7dx]

My Brother and I through hiked the AT in 1981 and were only a couple of days ahead of Robert and Susan when they were murdered. We met Robert at a hiker hostel in Hot Springs NC. He was a great guy full of fun and life. It was a sad sad day when we found out about what happened to him and his girlfriend Susan. A few hikers quit the trail because of it but we carried on and finished in August 81. Beni from New Zealand

[@kerr9727]

Wow a kiwi I live in Lower Hutt in Wellington! What an incredible story glad you were ok!

[@AL-ts6iv]

Lol you didn't meet them, stop lying

[@bryanreed1000]

Elmer’s?

[@Beni-pj7dx]

@@kerr9727 thanks Kerry we actually saw Randell lee smith at wapiti shelter and we thought he looked out of place in the hills. Had a strange feeling about him. We were both questioned by the local police later on in the shanendoah national park

[@Beni-pj7dx]

@@AL-ts6iv not sure who you are but were you around that area at the time.? If not then your comment is of no consequence

[@blusnuby2]

The Parole Board who let R.L. Smith free, should have been ordered to serve-out the second half of his sentence. What a MESSAGE that would have sent !

[@justicemcdonald2939]

That is the dumbest shit I've ever heard You do realize that they would never release another person on parole again right which I'm okay with You want to serve your whole time serve the whole time and it should be the whole time but here's the thing with somebody gets released out of prison and their probation's over and their time's up their right should all be reinstated again You served your debt to society if the person is that dangerous that they should not be on the streets and not have all their rights back then they shouldn't be on the streets they should be in jail

[@marzfarrell794]

Best comment an idea ever 1000 percent agreed

[@oDIRECTORo]

This isn’t Russia jack ass.

[@Kushablestoner]

I love your thinking.

[@gregtennessee8249]

But you people approve of trumps January 6 failure hahahahaha

[@youtuber55629]

Wow. Straight to the story, no bs eerie music in the background, clear and concise storytelling. Got a subscriber in me bro!

[@joel.wuestehube]

Backpacking true crime videos is a KZbin niche I didn't new I needed

[@beaulieuonnp593]

Ivan Milat he was around when I was backpacking, though I only heard about years after when I came back.

[@carolynjiminez1247]

Milat was killing in Australia in case you didn’t know. Bad guy.

[@CarolynnMc01]

I have a friend who hiked the Appalachian trail alone. Honestly, I was petrified that he'd end up missing. There are too many creepers out there. I suppose it doesn't matter if a person is alone or has someone with them. Something could happen. People are crazy!

[@KayFabe87]

You are safer on the Appalachian Trail than you are in most urban areas throughout the US such as Chicago, Baltimore, NYC, Philadelphia, Oakland, San Francisco, Detroit, St Louis, etc.

[@CarolynnMc01]

@@KayFabe87 i believe it.... a few years ago in March someone was murdered on our mountain trails (near San Francisco). I'm just leery a lot of the time, because I was accosted at my own grocery store parking lot! A lot of that is going on, too. I'll get past it, and I'll buy some bear spray in the meantime. Thank you Kay! Take care.

[@Ezio999Auditore]

Get a fucking gun. Urban or trailside. Get a gun.

[@patty109109]

@@KayFabe87 yes if you find a nut job out there, nobody’s going to save you but the odds are vanishingly minute.

[@privateinvestigator8607]

So how did that friend turn out?

[@betsybarbera9806]

Good job on covering the history of the AT. I walked through Dismal Falls/Perisburg as my hiking partner was telling me about the murders/attempted murders. Keep up the good work.

[@kapatactical355]

Nice, what department are yall with?

[@tinaburgard7814]

New subscriber right now. I've listened/watched a few of your videos and love them. The pictures, having accurate facts and most of all a great story telling voice. I say go for 100,000.

[@sweettina2]

You said it right, that those two men survived at all was truly miraculous. I remember this, and as someone else said, that was a bad year around the Appalachian trail. If we emptied the jails and prisons of pot smokers, they could keep these murders in. Congratulations on your numbers! I hope you reach your new goal in no time at all. Whatever you decide it is. God bless!😊

[@SouthernBelleReviews]

Yes to emptying the jails and prisons for the dumb crimes!!!

[@atomicwedgie8176]

If the content is good, a creator doesn't need to beg for subscribers... gets old, quickly.

[@atomicwedgie8176]

@@SouthernBelleReviews

[@atomicwedgie8176]

@@SouthernBelleReviews I love trollhouse cookies!

[@danasimcho310]

Go for 100,000! Since I learned to read as a young child, I have seldom enjoyed being read to or listening to a long narrative being told, preferring instead to read it myself or watching pictures. However, your channel is one of the very few I really enjoy! Your pleasant voice & clear diction truly make your storytelling very, very enjoyable. Plus you're very cute to look at. Keep up the good work!

[@es0x]

I think I take it for granted that I live in Canada and can backpack for 7 days without seeing anyone, because half the reason I go out in the first place is to get away from people

[@Gizziiusa]

you lying. you go out to have some brewskis with some sasquatchi.

[@maxinemcclurd1288]

Sometimes here in the southern Appalachians I have one of those shining days where I meet no one on trail .

[@josephtobin3347]

@@Gizziiusa. No man, he’s screwing those Sasquatch babes. We’ll, maybe he softens them up first with the brewski’s.

[@johnblack6161]

Yeah well dont let Trudeau know, or he,ll ban you for ruining the countryside and shut down your bank account.

[@shanghunter7697]

The "people" WANT to be away from you too !! Narcissists aren't easy to like sparky.

[@nugsymalone1247]

Once some friends and I were hiking part of the appalachian in PA and randomly we passed a girl in her 20s going the other way. She was by herself wearing a dress, just casually walking in the woods. Never said anything to us. Kinda creeped me out a bit

[@charlottestreet3301]

Why was the young girl wearing a dress while hiking whenever you go hiking should you were hiking clothing

[@wrghty]

Some people do it to be mysterious

[@juliusjessee6950]

I met him in the fall 07 not far from where this took place. He gave me the creeps.

[@captainamerica3531]

Glad you’re still around.

[@beaulieuonnp593]

oh no

[@notroddy]

You remember this guy all these years later? Small world

[@JamesJones-cx5pk]

Don't be nice to dead beats while in the wilderness. Stay together, stay armed and keep moving.

[@3jeremyreed]

Congrats on the milestone, thanks for bringing these crazy stories to us!

[@egroegartfart]

I've been having trouble sleeping. It's now 2:40 a.m. and one of your videos just randomly pops up in my recommended feed. I'm already on my third video of yours. You do a really good job of story telling. And I don't say that very often. To me it's like when someone is a good actor you really don't see them as who they are. You see them as the character that they are playing. And a good story teller tells the story so well that you actually imagine the story in your head as they are telling it. And that's what has happened the last three videos I've watched of yours. Sorry this is so long. But just wanted to say that. Definitely a new sub. Thanks. And glad this guy was stopped. Did he die from the injuries from the crash?

[@martinoutside]

I really like these recent videos they are unique and interesting, thanks for the time and effort you put into producing, keep them coming.

[@twilightdancer9000]

Same here.

[@Cherrysmith2809]

I like this channel, not only for your style, but also for the great community of commenters you get. Next best thing to being out in the wilderness.

[@Kirk3719]

This content has been awesome. Different than the usual backpacker content!

[@jacobbeal8335]

This is tragic!! My thoughts go out to the family’s of the victims. I really like crime stories so I would enjoy hearing more hiking crime stories. Everyone please stay safe out there. Hiking is something we love but always keep your guard up. 🖤🖤

[@andrewbriscoe5953]

Your videos are getting really good. You are the #1 hiking/backpacking youtuber.

[@KyleHatesHiking]

That's such a high compliment, thank you for watching Andrew

[@garyogreen6958]

My youngest son was murdered several of his friends wounded. That's why I go no where without a gun. My son was going to be a cop. His killer will walk the streets again also. This is a real problem. We let these scum out every day in this country. When a dog bites we put it to sleep. Something to think about.

[@gregbors8364]

Cool story bro 👌

[@Lee-fi4vo]

Sorry for your loss.

[@tykenneth1]

@@gregbors8364 did that make you feel better?

[@Dan-xx5jq]

America, the beautiful????

[@TwistedFireX]

@@tykenneth1 do you feel better?

[@brycedunlap]

This is a crazy series you've been putting together.

[@anthonyfoutch3152]

all he post is negative things where the trail is actually safe.

[@Ottawa9one9]

@@anthonyfoutch3152 If you think that's true, you have not watched many of his videos. He has good balance between these serious ones and all your typical ones, usually with good humor thrown in. These are stories that should be told, particularly the unsolved cases that pay respect to the lost hikers in their own way.

[@anthonyfoutch3152]

@@Ottawa9one9 You might be right I'm new here but all I've seen are negative stories.

[@TheJhtlag]

@@anthonyfoutch3152 Nah, he just needs new material and all these old AT cases are gold. You can only do so many equipment discussions. Has he done the two women in Michaux State Park yet?

[@lindseymoore9727]

You do a great job telling these stories and showing empathy to the families. God bless and stay safe!

[@Justin.Martyr]

*Sooo, ALL these Trumpers,* *Let a MassMurderer Go After just 15-years!*

[@lisajones8730]

We don't live too far from where Julie and Laura were murdered while camping near the AT in Luray, VA in '96. We're super close to the trail and have met lot's of cool folks both in the park and in town. Just had some weirdo threatening women and carrying an axe last year, though. Just stay observant and aware, it's important.

[@kimberlyshepherd270]

🥺

[@chriskourliourod1651]

This is why carrying a firearm is a good idea. I remember a husband saving his wife from two wastes by killing them with a Ruger mini-14 .223

[@dougferrell7047]

@@helpfulcommenter When the consequences of being unprepared include death, a couple of extra pounds is simple pragmatism. Mitigating lightning requires a brain, a murderer requires something else.

[@MultiZoobie]

@@chriskourliourod1651 on the trail?

[@chriskourliourod1651]

If the extra weight eliminates wastes, amen to that. I’m sorry to inform you that this is a fallen world.

[@GuilhermeStorchdeFreitas]

went hiking just a section of the AP trail in 2018 and our group was approached by a large gentlemen when we were setting up camp by end of day 2. We all noticed that he had a pistol/revolver in his waist (open carry)... we all read the articles about the murdered people in that region (needless to say that we all had cardiac events in silence, just staring at each other). The gentleman was actually the Sherriff who actually investigated the murderers and caught the killer. Long story (by the fire) short, the Sherriff was stalking a big turkey with his son and stopped by to tell us not to be alarmed if we heard gunshots the following morning... indeed, we heard the shots and also met the Sherriff after his "kill". I need to find the pictures of the Sherriff and his ginormous Turkey. Tales of the trail.

[@olesmokey394]

I plan to do the AT soon but I do feel if your goin deep in the woods bring a gun I'm more afraid of animals than people tho personally.

[@Cappah]

@@olesmokey394 Fool.

[@GuilhermeStorchdeFreitas]

Ole, I didn't have a gun permit back then. If you are sure that you won't break any laws, bring your gun. Part of my group woke up scared with a couple of owls making some noise. Personally... I fear humans more than animals

[@richardmoore609]

It's not the people open carrying you really need to worry about. A killer would conceal his intentions until the last minute.

[@kathycasey9153]

This is a good reminder that evil truly exists. Congrats on 50,000. Next up, 100,000!

[@KyleHatesHiking]

🎉🎉

[@rockscousteau]

The dude who killed random people years apart. Dug into....and sold items from Indian Burial Grounds. That is what I was told....That holds weight with me. Something is not right here.....and when you factor that in......yea

[@laaaliiiluuu]

Evil is such an oversimplified way of looking at these things. But hey, most people are not very smart, so I guess good vs. evil is thus why it appeals to so many people.

[@polyemphis]

@@laaaliiiluuu Are you defending a murderer?

[@laaaliiiluuu]

@@polyemphis What? No. But evil is an outdated concept.

[@K.V.P14]

I hear ya on the sentencing bro! 30 years for a double homicide! Here in the UK ( England ) people usually only get 12-15 years for murder , it is very very rare indeed for someone ro actually get LIFE. I wish we were more strict with our sentencing

[@wrghty]

Yeah, only the serial killers get life with no parole in the UK.

[@x-i-am-jinx]

My family is from Appalachia (TN/VA) and honestly stories like this (not necessarily on the trail) were a whole lot of the reason I was nervous hiking in the area and didn’t do much of it growing up. My granddad would tell stories of stumbling upon bootleggers and having to run for his life. My parents still freak out when I’m going on a hike. Haven’t told them yet that I’m hiking the CT this year for this reason. Congrats on 50K! Looking forward to seeing what hikes you’re planning as well as further tales. 😊

[@tangoray1095]

Why would you still go you numbnutz

[@beaulieuonnp593]

yes, I can imagine, there will be so many stories

[@tangoray1095]

@@beaulieuonnp593 simp

[@Wiscobiscuit]

Love your channel- very professional and keeps my attention. You’re an excellent reporter/ documentary maker/ story teller.

[@Ottawa9one9]

As I told you on one of your previous video's of this type, you have talent. Well done. Congrats on the 50K!

[@Queen.AnneBoleyn]

I'm one of those people who live near the AT and go hiking on it regularly, but you best believe I keep my eyes 👀 peeled, ears open and am completely skeptical of everybody. There's been too many murders and attacks on the AT for me to not feel creeped out when hiking it.

[@budmangt2]

Yep, always be aware of stranger danger.

[@WORDversesWORLD]

30 years isn't enough, but neither is life living in comfort. Just think, no bills, free food, housing, clothing, heat and air, medical?! No, a sadistic individual needs a taste of his own fear, and for as long as it takes before sending them off to answer to their Maker!

[@richardcranium3579]

He would never do 30 years.

[@stephenaddair]

Living in a million dollar mansion with razor wire fences to keep people out lol 😂 or in??

[@hdwarrior8830]

Interesting fact about the hiking trail in Maine. There is a SEER school deep in the woods. My late brother in law was one of the instructors, they teach you cold weather survival training and how to survive and behave if you are captured by the enemy. There are a LOT of folks who go missing in that area, and strange crap like seeing people walking around wearing rabbit suits or panda costumes.. strange stuff like that. Be VERY careful while hiking in Maine. Never go alone.

[@energyvortex1000]

Pandas and Rabbits are symbols of Child sex trafficking

[@peterw.kocsis2520]

Damn-how weird and creepy? Panda and rabbit suits??? That would scare the %&#$ out of me. Far worse that some toothless, matted hair, ripped clothes back woods creep.

[@patm5086]

Maineiacs

[@WindTurbineSyndrome]

Furries

[@PhantomLordOG]

Animal costumes etc like that is MKultra/hypnosis tactics

[@valeskavictoria1278]

I feel like the law needs to be held accountable for being wrong about things like this. He should NEVER have been released. If there are no personal consequences for the people involved in letting him free, then no one will feel compelled to prevent such releases. At the very least, the organizations need to be held accountable.

[@ipdjbt]

The law? You mean the courts.

[@keastymatthew2407]

Lol yep blame them😆 No one take self responsibility🙄ever

[@jakejake7162]

My biggest fear of camping those trails is someone sneaking up on me/maybe a buddy while we’re sleeping and surprise attack us. I couldn’t imagine waking up to a blade jabbing into me or gunfire. I’d probably sleep like crap because I’d be paranoid and end up sabotaging my trip because of sleep deprivation. Maybe I can get a battery operated motion sensor with an alarm that I can set up. I’d buy one of those in a heartbeat if they could prove it would work

[@richardmoore609]

Sometimes late at night in my eno hammock I get reminded of the fact that I'm basically a hanging meat sack with no visibility

[@AmandaTikkanen]

The Casual Criminalist did an episode on this story as well. It's well done and worth the time to watch/listen.

[@Queen.AnneBoleyn]

Unbelievable how the injustice system lets these criminal freaks out on parole, just to kill again. Because they always do. I think that the judge, parole board and whoever lets these men out should be held accountable! 😡 It's unforgivable.

[@SirManfly]

Liberal policies in action !!

[@Heidiksf1]

I started watching your channel because of it's name but stayed for the stories. I say go for 100,000!

[@paigesironko6597]

Growing up in the Appalachian mnts..I'm a camper..hiker. I grew up in the woods. I'm new to channel and love it. I would much rather hear your stories than camping gear. Your a great storyteller.😊

[@bmfsnc8466]

Just found this channel, loving the stories, good coverage, good kaydence to your story telling. Keep up the good work man!

[@KyleHatesHiking]

hey thank you so much for watching!

[@trapper4676]

My wife's uncle, Jess Carr, wrote a great book about the 81 killings, called Death on the Appalachian Trail. Great book.

[@toejamr1]

I’m pretty stoked my momma didn’t hear about any of this before my AT thruhike lol

[@beaulieuonnp593]

probably has increased a lot now, interesting book

[@Wes0602]

Hell yeah, thanks for sharing.

[@dereknoto9969]

Exactly why I carry my glock close while hiking.I hate running into others hiking even though there are alot of nice people out there.People that think a gun is unnecessary for backpacking are not very prepared.

[@obxchas]

Sorry Rambo, but if some hiker you befriend decides to sneak up on you with a firearm, you're not going to have time to draw yours before it's game over. Stop living in fear.

[@dereknoto9969]

@@obxchas I don't befriend people and I never let anyone hike behind me.I am not Rambo and don't fear much, just rather have something that could save my life if I need it.Bears,bobcats and people are good reasons enough for me to carry one.Being alert,aware and prepared is not being scared.

[@valeskavictoria1278]

@@obxchas Therefore, he should take zero precautions? That doesn't make any sense.

[@pepsirichard24]

@@obxchas That's like telling people not to wear seatbelts and if they do their just "living in fear". It's better to have it and not need it, then to need it and not have it.

[@obxchas]

@@pepsirichard24 yeah, because the likelihood of being attacked on the AT is definitely the same percentage-wise as your chances of being in an automobile accident. C'mon Pepsi Dick, that's an awful analogy.

[@moneyfornothing3264]

I’ve met some pretty creepy people (I guess they are people) on that trail. It creeps me out being out there at night, wondering who’s sitting in the trees looking at you through the crosshairs of a rifle scope.

[@brentelliott7093]

Good God! No way I'm going out there now!! F that!!

[@noname-wk7jw]

Was machst du dort nachts ❓️

[@nihalvlivion9219]

​@@noname-wk7jw Dort schlafen? Was denn sonst 😂

[@bionicdan1959]

Well done Kyle! You did a remarkably detailed documentary on this!!

[@niteshades_promise]

i want to hike this. good info. 🍻

[@ceciliahikes]

How about some videos about historical sites along the AT, PCT and other trails?

[@geekyprojects1353]

I like your storytelling, liked.

[@loyaltyisroyalty5616]

Me and the crew camp at the shelters in the winter because there is never anyone there. The last two trips, solo young guys showed up in the night. We are always hospitable in sharing food n what not, but I always keep an eye out.

[@Baseballnfj]

I'm often camping off the AT on short trips in winter as I love winter hiking... mostly it's just locals that show up at shelters in the off season... But it's 100 percent true that there's more weirdos out there also

[@loyaltyisroyalty5616]

@@Baseballnfj we are actually going for another overnighter on Thursday. I’m curious if we will have visitors again this time since the weather has been pretty mild. I will definitely be on alert, because you just never know. I hope you get some enjoyable winter camping this season!

[@Baseballnfj]

@loyaltyisroyalty5616 you definitely never know but I feel unlike most places in this world those people who might be there for reasons other than outdoors stuff are pretty easy to spot. People without proper gear or at least basic day gear stuff stick out like a sore thumb. You can tell when someone is hiking and when they aren't.

[@loyaltyisroyalty5616]

@@Baseballnfj absolutely. Thats a really good point. Last time I went out, a young guy showed up solo with very little gear. In fact, he was wearing a tshirt when it was winter time. It turned out he was a rock climber and had all his other gear in a car kinda nearby. I was really watchful of him, but thankfully he turned out harmless and he went on his way at daybreak.

[@Baseballnfj]

@loyaltyisroyalty5616 if you'll remember years ago the guy who was killing people on the AT around Duncannon, PA was reported multiple times because he was walking along the AT connector carrying two duffle bags.

[@dianaharden8077]

I hope you stopped and visited at the Settlers Museum in Atkins, VA. That is literally half a mile from where I live. It is an awesome place to recharge and you can even stay the night in the old school house if it's raining. They always have snacks, water, and some sort of dry clothes there if anyone needs them. God bless and take care!!!

[@toddgarrison6154]

So happy for you at hitting 50K. I think I would shoot for 75K but congrats. Long time coming but well deserved @kyle

[@NoNeedForSensorsOnYouTube]

Possession of a firearm in GSMNP is a federal offense, but I never hike or go anywhere else without my handgun.

[@natehikes]

Crazy. I just saw this on True Criminals or something like that last night. Can’t believe those two survived and without serious long term injuries too. Insane

[@brianjohnston6132]

Both still have bullets still in them from the incident, but are fine to this day. In fact, they still go back to this campground and camp. Scott is my brother and Sean is one of my best friends.

[@thefashiongoddesschannel8099]

Get armed. Never hike unarmed. You'll never win over the voices in someone else's head. You go armed.

[@michaelosgood9876]

Scared

[@amitzdullnicker2k]

It would never come to my mind to arm myself when hiking over here in Europe. Especially not to protect myself against weirdos. I only met nice people in decades of hiking. What a strange country the USA is...

[@Smokedissht]

Ok so you've only met nice people that's awesome I'm glad.... Not everybody is nice and OP is correct you never know who you'll run into in the wilderness I rather be safe then sorry ​@@amitzdullnicker2k

[@notquiteultralight1701]

HOLY SHIT DUDE!! That’s fuckin scary!! I prune trees as a side gig and I’ve often thought that it might be a good idea to bring my silky handsaw with me on backpacking trips just for such a squirrel that one might meet “out there”. It’s not a gun, it’s just a layer but it’s something that’s actually pretty light and can rip quite easily through oak limbs so…. I’ve run into 2 scary squirrels in my backpacking travels. Once with a buddy and once with my teenage daughter. They were both packing heat and it really made me think about getting my LTC for the states I was in. Both times i was on the AT. Whether it’s bearspray, a handsaw, a hatchet. Important thing is to go with someone and definitely stealth camp NOT at a site. Dry camp if you have to. CONGRATS ON 50 dude! Out. NQU

[@gurlfiend76]

The fact the survived multiple shots, ran & drove away is amazing.

[@no_step_on_snek9796]

They were shot with a .22....it's used for squirrels and small rodents. .22 blanks are used in nail guns. .22 can still be deadly, but it's not a man stopper. I'm not surprised they were still on their feet.

[@freeheel748]

Good storytelling Kyle.

[@easygoer1234]

I like all of your videos Kyle however I really like the true crime you cover on the trails. Thanks Kyle.

[@bambilackner]

There’s a couple doc on this. One is called dead silent ( tv show name) the curse of dismal creek, season: 1 - ep : 1.. the other is called fatal encounters. Season 2 ep 4 called: murder around the campfire, I think criminal minds did something too but I haven’t watched that so can’t really recommend it, but these two are done very good. Matter of fact I think everyone will love all the episodes the way each serial is done is amazing I upset they haven’t kept them up.

[@suehowery1286]

This is for those who wondered what happened to the dog..it survived. It was said someone who knew the Smith's took him. 👍

[@WindTurbineSyndrome]

Thank you for your comment. Poor dog. What a psycho Smith was.

[@gregorylapointe4157]

Just go for the 100k, you'll get there, very interesting channel.

[@jimmyrustles7179]

After hearing about the "do you know how to get to Bell's Canyon" story, I'm never camping in any woods again. I'm good.

[@yarn1471]

0:48 this picture looks like Anton Chigur from no country for old men..

[@696floats]

No matter where your at there will always be evil people , just watch your back

[@beaulieuonnp593]

agreed. I literally do risk assessments and I look behind me a lot

[@Metalalbumreviewers]

Hearing about the teamwork between the two hikers that were shot is proof that keeping a cool head, and just pushing through, while admitting your limitations, and being willing to work together, are life-saving skills. These guys clearly had discussed and prepared for the worst. I'd dare say one or both of them are military veterans, given the situation. In a bad situation, you don't rise to the level of your expectations; you fall to the level of your training and preparedness.

[@aarthiuthayakumar-6315]

Kyle! What a great storyteller you are. I was completely drawn in. Only wish the music was a bit more eerie to match the story, but other than that, I love your channel so much. Definitely earned a new subscriber 😊

[@Liber8d]

I know Dismal Creek well. We used to camp and trout fish there when I was in college in Radford in the late 80s. This story always freaks me out, since my time spent there, coincided with Lyin’ Randall’s time in jail, and not hunting the innocent on the trail. Although we were all hunters, none of us had firearms with us during the spring Trout season. The summer of 87, my girlfriend and I decided to take an impromptu trip to Dismal Creek for a night of camping. While setting up the tent, I realized that we had not put our bedding into the car so we would have to go back and pick it up. Before we headed out, a sedan with three guys, all in the bench, front seat, came down off the gravel road, around our little dirt turn around by the creek,and back up to the road, all the while gazing at us. Although I probably would’ve been smart to pull up my tent stakes, I went home instead and got the bedding. And my shotgun. We went back to the tent, got in bed and had no issues, but you never know And as they say, timing is everything! 🎱

[@richardhenry1969]

Very rare unless it happens to you. People need to realize times are different many people have untreated mental health issues. My girl and I survived a home invasion. Take in mind I lived in the city. But my point is living less then 2 miles from a police station. They never showed up. Now how long do you think it would take in the woods. It’s better to plan for the worst then make it up on the fly.

[@beaulieuonnp593]

wow, that's awful, but yes we have to prepare for the worst. You are right, getting help in the woods is very hard and it was useless the police didn't turn and they weren't far away... life is scary

[@carrieconner2021]

This case was not mental illness, but demonic influence. Many, many people have spiritual issues and it's not at all addressed in today's society.

[@JonCooper86]

200k subs soon, nice

[@roselee_explores]

It’s absolutely insane that anyone who purposely kills other people gets out in 15 years!? But it’s like James Jordan who also killed a AT hiker with a machete was allowed to plead not guilty by reason of insanity … gets to sit in a psychiatric facility! 🙄😡. Keep aiming high for 100k 😎

[@jonathanlund590]

After farmer had escaped and the next day he was told that the guy who tried to kill him was Randell Lee Smith I was curious as to how they knew so quickly

[@andrewwaggoner1831]

They had already caught him.

[@samlambert2699]

Big fan of this content! Would love to hear more about interesting stories and AT history.

[@Trumkin42]

Are we getting James Lewis Jordan next? I actually spoke to multiple trail angels who had encountered him that season

[@KyleHatesHiking]

I'll make video about it soon!

[@debrandw246]

CONGRATULATIONS ❤️ 🎊 GREAT VIDEOS. THANK YOU

[@jsweevil]

In spite of these rare attacks, I am still more scared to be in a Walmart parking lot than the AT.

[@prioris55555]

some years back, a women doctor told me her friend was kidnapped by a serial killer in the walmart parking lot. I stay clear of people walking alone. if i have to communicate something, i do it from a far distance. i don't want other people getting to close to me either unless there are lots of other people around. When one is alone, one has to be more vigilant.

[@MultiZoobie]

@@prioris55555 did her friend get free and survive?

[@prioris55555]

@@MultiZoobie sadly no.

[@christiankelley4145]

Great content!

[@dennisswaim8210]

You do not go into the wilderness unarmed.

[@Mr.Boom_513]

Digging the ADK 46er tapestry in the background. 👍

[@KRM02]

Personally for anything other than accidental murder/homicide I truly believe we need to go back to days of public hangings which we detour a lot of this crap .. people get off way too easy nodays because of all the bleeding hearts. Be safe in your travels. Kyle

[@JRCOBRA]

yup short drop and a sudden stop

[@melaniathapump576]

Okay but also for cheaters

[@LANeverSleeps]

Ah yes, the good ol' days in the 1800s when murder was rare and the courts were incorruptible.

[@RA-zj3vs]

I believe I watched a show about this, you did a great job covering it

[@Music-lx1tf]

This is why you always carry.

[@ralphtarr5931]

I have a friend who wants to do the trail alone and just get away from society in general... I'm not intimidated or scared to be outta my element but even 10 years ago I knew it's not safe to go on your own

[@picknowell]

Prosecuter and parole board who let him go should serve double his sentence.

[@Justin.Martyr]

*Sooo, ALL these Trumpers,* *Let a MassMurderer Go After just 15-years!*

[@kimm4917]

new favorite.. binge watching ALL!!!

[@Pw6872]

If you hike this 95% remote trail unarmed, you're courting victimhood. There are people who kill for fun. Remember this.

[@AclockworkPurple]

I hate to be the one to break it to you but if someone wants to do you harm and is also armed you stand no chance. If someone holding a machete and is standing 2 feet from you and your gun is holstered you also stand very little chance of doing anything other than giving someone a new gun to go with their machete. Unless you walk around with that gun of yours in your hand every second of your time in the woods while constantly looking behind every tree, exploring every shadow for bogey-men and drawing on and holding a sight picture on every person you may run across you stand a minimal chance no matter what you do. I’m sure you think you are the exception. People who “kill for fun” and hunt other people aren’t going to linger around the woods hoping the “right” victim comes along at the “right” time. They are going to go to a city where they control the time, place, person and scenario and can fulfill their desire to hurt someone without having to wait. People should have care when meeting other people and listen to their gut, absolutely, but carrying a gun is not the magic talisman you seem to think it is.

[@BuildWall]

@@AclockworkPurple Boy, what an intelligent comment. "A gun isn't a magic invincibility cloak therefore it isn't going to help you." And getting the drop on someone doesn't mean an easy win. If you're trained and your attacker isn't, you've got a great chance. But hey, if you'd rather curl up in a ball and shriek than try to fight back, that's cool man.

[@AclockworkPurple]

@@BuildWall Jesus Christ, dude. You make it seem like a hike on a trail is a combat zone. The Appalachian Trail is not the Ho Chi Minh Trail. Hilarious.

[@BuildWall]

@@AclockworkPurple lmao bro you're the one who posted "If someone holding a machete and is standing 2 feet from you and your gun is holstered you also stand very little chance of doing anything other than giving someone a new gun to go with their machete."

[@AclockworkPurple]

@@BuildWall Yes, but the key word in there is IF. I didn’t say “WHEN you go in the woods someone WILL be there with a machete trying to harm you”, did I?

[@zshapiro504]

Love hiking, I’ve just never stepped foot on a trail without a sidearm.