The Trail Less Traveled

Step into the rugged beauty of Montana's backcountry as wilderness legend Smoke Elser shares his remarkable 60+ year journey through the Bob Marshall Wilderness. Since 1957, Elser has been a guardian of these pristine lands, witnessing their transformation from horse-only trails to a diverse recreational haven. Learn about Bob Marshall himself - an extraordinary conservationist who, despite his aversion to horses, hiked extensively through Montana's wilderness, laying the groundwork for modern conservation efforts. His legacy lives on through the Wilderness Society and the landmark Wilderness Act of 1964.Arnold “Smoke” Elser is a legendary wilderness outfitter, educator, and conservationist whose life’s work is deeply rooted in Montana’s Bob Marshall Wilderness. Since his first trip into the Bob in 1956, Elser has spent nearly seven decades guiding thousands of people—many of them first-time riders—through its rugged terrain, sharing not only the landscape but also his deep reverence for wild places.After graduating from the University of Montana in 1968 with a degree in range management and secondary education, Elser and his wife Thelma founded Bob Marshall Wilderness Outfitters. They built their business on a philosophy of “interpreting the land,” helping guests connect with the wilderness through storytelling, horsemanship, and a commitment to conservation. Elser has led over 700 trips into the Bob Marshall Wilderness and has spent more than 8,030 nights under its stars.Elser’s influence extends beyond guiding. He has taught horse and mule packing at the University of Montana since 1964, training over 30,000 students, including military personnel and federal land managers. Elser’s stories and experiences are captured in the memoir Hush of the Land: A Lifetime in the Bob Marshall Wilderness, co-authored with Eva-Maria Maggi. The book offers a vivid account of his adventures and his enduring commitment to protecting Montana’s wildlands. Even in his 90s, Smoke Elser remains an active voice in wilderness education and conservation, embodying a lifetime dedicated to the stewardship of the Bob Marshall Wilderness. Show notes:00:04:06 - Founding the Wilderness Society00:07:13 - Establishing Wilderness Areas00:09:55 - Creation of the Bob Marshall Wilderness00:12:56 - Development of Wilderness Access00:14:29 - Evolution of Bob Marshall Wilderness Use00:16:52 - Growth of Hiking and Floating Activities00:18:58 - Alumni Gathering in the Hills00:21:06 - Starting an Outfitting Business00:23:27 - First Trip to Sentinel Lookout00:25:53 - History of the Bob Marshall Wilderness00:29:05 - Establishing a Ranger Station00:33:28 - Exploring Hawn Creek and Ranger Stations00:35:41 - History of the Ranger's Cabin00:37:45 - History of Bob Marshall Wilderness00:40:28 - Improving Wilderness Camping Practices00:42:52 - Backpacking Fire Pan TipsFollow the adventures and interviews in real time at TrailLessTraveled.net and be sure to check out our visual series on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram.Help us keep the podcast ad free by donating $3/month via PATREON. #montana #bobmarshall #wilderness

The Missoula Housing Authority offers housing assistance to veterans through programs like HUD-VASH, which combines rental assistance with VA case management and supportive services. MHA's Valor House provides 17 one-bedroom units for permanent housing for homeless veterans, featuring communal amenities such as a kitchen, meeting spaces, and laundry facilities.  In 2023, MHA received funding to expand permanent housing options for homeless veterans and their families. Established in 1990, Veterans Inc. is a nonprofit organization headquartered in Massachusetts, serving veterans and their families across New England, Montana, and North Dakota. It provides holistic supportive services, including housing, employment and training, case management, food security, behavioral healthcare, suicide prevention, and programs for women veterans.  Veterans Inc. has assisted over 100,000 veterans, achieving an 85% success rate in transitioning them out of homelessness. Valor House is a 72-bed transitional housing facility operated by First Step House, offering housing and supportive services to veterans experiencing homelessness. The program provides structured support to help veterans transition to permanent housing. Show notes:00:04:32 - Journey from Alcoholism to Recovery00:07:55 - Importance of Seeking Help00:11:45 - Supporting Veterans and Community Programs00:13:34 - Understanding Homelessness Among Veterans00:17:22 - Finding Support and Rebuilding Life00:25:15 - Opening Your Eyes to Change00:26:42 - Supporting Veterans in Need00:29:01 - Embracing Support and Community00:30:36 - Journey to Self-Sufficiency00:33:47 - Life at Valor House00:35:04 - Update on Eye Surgery and Community Care00:36:30 - Conservation Tips for Baby Birds

Step into the extraordinary world of Skip Horner, a veteran adventure guide whose 50-year career spans over 100 countries and countless epic expeditions. Skip Horner is a legendary American adventure guide, mountaineer, and expedition leader with a career spanning over five decades. He is renowned for being the first guide to lead clients to the summits of all Seven Summits—the highest peaks on each continent—including Mount Everest, where he became the 420th person to reach the top. His extensive guiding experience encompasses more than 100 countries, with expeditions in 62 of them, ranging from mountain treks to river descents and wildlife safaris.Horner's adventurous spirit has led him to accomplish numerous firsts in the world of exploration. He has led first descents of 12 major rivers, including the Yangtze, Zambezi, and Indus, and has navigated the Colorado River through the Grand Canyon 38 times. His mountaineering feats include 33 ascents of Kilimanjaro, eight of Mount Vinson in Antarctica, and six of Gunnbjørnsfjeld in the Arctic. Additionally, he has skied to the North Pole and participated in 11 expeditions to Antarctica.Alongside his wife Elizabeth, Horner operates Skip Horner Worldwide, Inc., based in Victor, Montana. Together, they design and lead bespoke expeditions to some of the world's most remote and culturally rich destinations, including camel treks across the Sahara, Himalayan climbs, and Amazon rainforest explorations . Horner is a certified alpine guide by the American Mountain Guides Association (AMGA) and a Fellow Emeritus of the Explorers Club. Show notes:00:04:48 - Reflecting on 40 Years of Adventures00:08:07 - Memorable Adventures in Burkina Faso00:10:48 - Determining the Highest Arctic Peak00:14:19 - Life's Journey Through Travel Chapters00:16:39 - First Descent on the Çoru River00:19:25 - Preparing for the River Challenge00:21:57 - Preparing for Class Five Rapids00:23:36 - First Descent of the Choroo River00:25:35 - From Turkey to Antarctica Adventures00:27:28 - First Ascent of Vinson00:30:02 - Climbing Challenges at High Camp00:32:27 - Facing Mistakes in Mountain Climbing00:34:33 - Overcoming Failure on Mount Vinson00:37:13 - Movement as a Key to Problem SolvingFollow the adventures and interviews in real time at TrailLessTraveled.net and be sure to check out our visual series on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram.The radio version of the show premieres Sunday nights at 6 MST, streaming live online at Trail1033.com & locally (Missoula) on the Trail 103.3 FMWhy listen to the radio version instead of the podcast? Well, because the radio version includes music selected by the folks we interview!Please help us keep the podcast ad free by donating $3/month via PATREON. We really need your help, as of right now we are only brining in $79/month in donations.#travelpodcast #adventurepodcast #conservationpodcast #podcast #whitewaterrafting #antartica #skiphorner #travelpodcast #travel #adventuretravel #missoula #missoulamontana #montana #storytelling #mountainclimbing #whitewater

Dr. Jim Halfpenny is a renowned polar ecologist, expedition leader, and expert in cold-climate ecology with decades of experience studying the extreme environments of the Arctic and Antarctic. With a background in wildlife biology and ecology, Dr. Halfpenny has led and participated in numerous scientific expeditions to the polar regions, where he has conducted groundbreaking research on climate change, snow ecology, and the adaptation of wildlife to some of the planet’s harshest conditions.Dr. Halfpenny's firsthand accounts paint a vivid picture of climate change's impact: shrinking glaciers, thawing permafrost releasing dangerous methane, and indigenous communities forced to relocate due to shifting wildlife patterns. His upcoming book "The Last Cold" documents these profound changes, while his research using ice cores reveals how current CO2 levels far exceed anything seen in the past 800,000 years.Despite passing certain environmental tipping points, Dr. Halfpenny emphasizes hope through action and the importance of individual contributions to combat climate change. From infrastructure challenges in Alaska to the transformation of the Northwest Passage into a potential trade route, this episode offers crucial insights into our warming world.Don't miss this essential conversation about one of the most pressing challenges of our time. Listen now to understand why the Arctic's story is everyone's story.Show notes:00:02:48 - Climate Change Observations in Greenland00:06:05 - Impact of Climate Change on Icebergs00:09:27 - Future of Coastal Towns and Trade Routes00:11:14 - Understanding Historical Climate Change00:14:13 - Carbon Dioxide and Climate Change00:17:05 - Tipping Points and Climate Action00:19:22 - Impact of Permafrost Thawing00:22:43 - Challenges of Northern Train Travel00:24:09 - Impact of Climate Change on Northern Communities00:26:50 - Impact of Climate Change on Species00:30:15 - Impact of Climate Change on Wildlife00:34:44 - Impact of Climate Change on Wildlife00:38:06 - Impact of Climate Change on Bears00:40:12 - Grizzly Bears and Climate Change00:41:32 - Advice for Mitigating Climate ChangeFollow the adventures and interviews in real time at TrailLessTraveled.net and be sure to check out our visual series on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram.The radio version of the show premieres Sunday nights at 6 MST, streaming live online at Trail1033.com & locally (Missoula) on the Trail 103.3 FMWhy listen to the radio version instead of the podcast? Well, because the radio version includes music selected by the folks we interview!Please help us keep the podcast ad free by donating $3/month via PATREON. We really need your help, as of right now we are only brining in $79/month in donations.#travelpodcast #adventurepodcast #conservationpodcast #podcast #conservation #storytelling #adventure #travel #traillesstraveled #adventuretravel #climatechange #climateaction #climatecrisis #yellowstonenationalpark #polarbears #polar

Join us as we venture into the wilds of Zambia’s Lower Zambezi with three seasoned bush guides—Marshal, Luckson, and Malan. From the rugged seats of a Toyota Land Cruiser, we chat with Marshal and Malan about wildlife conservation, poaching, ecology, and the intricate behaviors of Africa’s iconic animals. Then, we sit down with Luckson, a top-tier guide with the highest level of training, to uncover the rigorous education, testing, and fieldwork required to lead walking safaris—a tradition that was born right here in Zambia. Tune in for an immersive journey into the heart of the African bush. Show notes:00:06:07 - Protecting Zambia's National Parks from Mining00:09:03 - Revisiting the Mating Lions in Lower Zambezi00:12:08 - Elephant Encounter in Lower Zambezi00:17:12 - Let's Move Together as One Zambia00:20:19 - Becoming a Bush Guide in Zambia00:22:47 - Intensive Training and Expertise of Safari Guides00:25:31 - The Importance of Respecting Animal Boundaries00:28:59 - From Whitewater to Walking: A Guide's Journey00:30:57 - Family Doubts, Overcoming Fears, and Protecting the Zambezi00:32:57 - The Importance of Protecting River Ecosystems00:34:53 - Night Drive with Guide Milan in Zambia00:39:58 - Transforming Poachers into Conservationists00:44:07 - Night Drive with Cooperative ClientsFollow the adventures and interviews in real time at TrailLessTraveled.net and be sure to check out our visual series on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram.The radio version of the show premieres Sunday nights at 6 MST, streaming live online at Trail1033.com & locally (Missoula) on the Trail 103.3 FMWhy listen to the radio version instead of the podcast? Well, because the radio version includes music selected by the folks we interview!Please help us keep the podcast ad free by donating $3/month via PATREON. We really need your help, as of right now we are only brining in $79/month in donations.#travelpodcast #adventurepodcast #conservationpodcast #podcast #conservation #storytelling #adventure #travel #traillesstraveled #adventuretravel #zambia #lowerzambezi #lowerzambezinationalpark #zambeziriver #guidelife #safari #safariguide #lowerzambeziriver #zambeziriver

As a child growing up on a farm in Zimbabwe, Mikey Hensman was surrounded by rescued exotic animals like elephants, impalas, and warthogs. This unique upbringing sparked his deep passion for wildlife that eventually led him to a career in anti-poaching and conservation. Hensman is the co-founder of Resolve Wildlife, an African-led strategic advisory and training group dedicated to conserving Africa's wild landscapes. Resolve Wildlife's team includes experts in protected area management, ecology, law enforcement, and community-based resource management. One of their key conservation partners, Conservation Lower Zambezi (CLZ), is a non-profit organization working to protect Zambia’s Lower Zambezi region. CLZ collaborates with Zambia’s Department of National Parks and Wildlife (DNPW) to conduct foot and aerial patrols, as well as operate specialized enforcement units, including the highly effective Dog Unit.Introduced in 2016 with support from USAID, the Dog Unit plays a vital role in combating poaching and wildlife trafficking. Trained to detect scents of ammunition, bushmeat, ivory, pangolin, and firearms, these skilled sniffer dogs and their local handlers conduct vehicle searches at checkpoints and assist with tracking operations. Their efforts have resulted in numerous arrests and significant recoveries of illegal wildlife products, including over 175 kilograms of bushmeat and multiple firearms. Looking ahead, the program aims to expand the dogs' detection capabilities to include rhino horn and Zambia’s rare Mukula wood, further strengthening anti-poaching efforts in the region. Show Notes:00:03:46 - From Polo to Elephant Training: A Family's Journey00:07:09 - Elephant Conservation and Canine Anti-Poaching Programs00:10:16 - Detection and Tracking: Canine Anti-Poaching Capabilities00:12:23 - Challenges of Conservation Dog Training in Africa00:18:42 - Patrolling the Periphery: Combating Poaching in Africa00:21:14 - Encounters with Poachers in the Miombo Woodland00:24:23 - Tracking Poachers Through Rugged Terrain00:27:28 - Tracking Animals for Conservation00:30:51 - Protecting Wildlife and Communities in Lower Zambezi00:34:41 - Protecting the Zambezi River and Wildlife00:36:18 - Promoting Environmental Education and Community EmpowermentFollow the adventures and interviews in real time at TrailLessTraveled.net and be sure to check out our visual series on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram.The radio version of the show premieres Sunday nights at 6 MST, streaming live online at Trail1033.com & locally (Missoula) on the Trail 103.3 FMWhy listen to the radio version instead of the podcast? Well, because the radio version includes music selected by the folks we interview!Please help us keep the podcast ad free by donating $3/month via PATREON. We really need your help, as of right now we are only brining in $79/month in donations.#travelpodcast #adventurepodcast #conservationpodcast #podcast #conservation #storytelling #adventure #travel #traillesstraveled #adventuretravel #zambia #resolvewildlife #lowerzambezi #conservationlowerzambezi #elephantconservation #dogtraining #antipoaching #k9training

Dr. Jim Halfpenny is a renowned scientist, educator, and author specializing in carnivore ecology, tracking, and the natural history of cold climates. With a Ph.D. in biology, he has conducted extensive research on wildlife, particularly bears, wolves, and mountain lions, and has contributed significantly to the study of animal tracking and forensic wildlife investigations. As the president of A Naturalist’s World, he has led numerous workshops and expeditions, sharing his deep knowledge with students, researchers, and outdoor enthusiasts. Dr. Halfpenny has authored several influential books and field guides, helping to advance the understanding of animal behavior and ecosystems. His passion for conservation and education has left a lasting impact on wildlife science and outdoor learning. Show notes: 00:03:00 - Growing Up on the River and Becoming an Outdoor Guide00:06:44 - Surviving the Coldest Winter in Yellowstone00:09:55 - Yellowstone Ski Trips and Survival Experiences00:12:27 - Teaching Snow and Polar Regions in Vietnam00:15:29 - The Importance of Tracking in Early Human Survival00:18:12 - The Art and Science of Tracking00:21:28 - Forensic Tracking: Revealing the Hidden Story00:23:44 - Careful Carcass Examination: Gathering Evidence for Accurate Identification00:26:18 - Evaluating Forensic Evidence: Probability and Quality00:28:12 - Tracking Animals Across Continents00:30:52 - Tracking Paws: Webbing, Claws, and Unique Adaptations00:33:22 - Comparing Bear Claws and Tracks00:35:42 - Exploring the Skulls of Bears, Wolves, and Prey Animals00:37:40 - Analyzing Bones and Tracks of Wildlife00:39:42 - Protecting Planet Earth: Collective Responsibility and ActionFollow the adventures and interviews in real time at TrailLessTraveled.net and be sure to check out our visual series on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram.The radio version of the show premieres Sunday nights at 6 MST, streaming live online at Trail1033.com & locally (Missoula) on the Trail 103.3 FMWhy listen to the radio version instead of the podcast? Well, because the radio version includes music selected by the folks we interview!Please help us keep the podcast ad free by donating $3/month via PATREON. We really need your help, as of right now we are only brining in $79/month in donations.#travelpodcast #adventurepodcast #conservationpodcast #podcast #MONTANA #ecology #hunting #conservation #storytelling #adventure #travel #traillesstraveled #missoula #adventuretravel #publiclands #keepitpublic #yellowstone #yellowstonenationalpark #wolves #wolf #grizzlybear #carnivoreecology #ecology #jimhalfpenny #jameshalfpenny

Hal Herring is an award-winning journalist and writer renowned for his work in conservation and investigative journalism. His writing has appeared in notable publications such as The Atlantic, The Economist, and Orion. He is also a contributing editor at Field & Stream and a regular contributor to High Country News.Beyond his writing, Herring has made significant contributions to the podcasting world as the host of the "Podcast & Blast with Hal Herring," produced by Backcountry Hunters and Anglers. This podcast delves into topics related to conservation, hunting, and the outdoors, reflecting Herring's commitment to these issues. Herring's dedication to conservation and the outdoors is evident not only in his writing but also in his active involvement in related communities and initiatives. His work continues to inspire and inform those passionate about the natural world and its preservation. https://www.halherring.com/SHOW NOTES:00:03:36 - Formative Years of an Outdoor Writer00:05:13 - Discovering the Wonders of Western Public Lands00:07:10 - From Alabama to Montana: A Life in the Wild00:09:08 - Dual Citizenship and Montana's Arid Landscape00:10:48 - The Arid Beauty and Vital Watersheds of Public Lands00:13:52 - The Importance of Public Lands in America00:15:36 - The Origins of Forest Conservation in the US00:19:10 - The Timber Reserve Act and the Clash of Conservation Visions00:21:17 - Preserving America's Public Lands00:25:57 - Valuing America's Public Lands00:28:16 - The Importance of Public Lands and Collaborative Management00:30:49 - Valuing and Preserving America's Public Lands00:33:08 - Preserving Wildlife Corridors on Public Lands00:35:07 - Preserving America's Public Lands for Future Generations00:38:13 - Connect with Nature to Conserve ItFollow the adventures and interviews in real time at TrailLessTraveled.net and be sure to check out our visual series on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram.The radio version of the show premieres Sunday nights at 6 MST, streaming live online at Trail1033.com & locally (Missoula) on the Trail 103.3 FMWhy listen to the radio version instead of the podcast? Well, because the radio version includes music selected by the folks we interview!Please help us keep the podcast ad free by donating $3/month via PATREON. We really need your help, as of right now we are only brining in $79/month in donations.#travelpodcast #adventurepodcast #conservationpodcast #podcast #MONTANA #ecology #hunting #conservation #storytelling #adventure #travel #traillesstraveled #missoula #adventuretravel #publiclands #keepitpublic #halherring #backcountryhuntersandanglers #bha

Lisa Barill, a wildlife biologist and science writer, shares the fascinating story of ice patch archaeology and how melting glaciers are revealing a trove of ancient artifacts around the world. She earned a B.S. in biology from Eastern Connecticut State University in 2000 and a master's degree from Montana State University in 2009. Baril has extensive experience writing about natural resources and science for national parks across the southwestern United States. She is a member of the National Association of Science Writers, the Society of Environmental Journalists, and the Outdoor Writers Association of America. In 2024, she authored "The Age of Melt: What Glaciers, Ice Mummies, and Ancient Artifacts Teach Us about Climate, Culture, and a Future Without Ice," exploring the deep-rooted cultural connection between humans and ice throughout history. Show Notes: 00:02:16 - Growing Up Adventuring in Connecticut00:05:30 - From Discovery Channel to Yellowstone: A Wildlife Biologist's Journey00:07:26 - Raptors and Songbirds in Yellowstone: Insights from Bald Eagles, Ospreys, and Peregrine Falcons00:10:33 - Wolves, Beavers, and Willow Growth in Yellowstone00:12:41 - Glaciers, Ice Mummies, and Ancient Artifacts00:14:37 - 10,300-Year-Old Hunting Tool Discovered in Ice Patch00:16:47 - The Atlatl: An Ancient Hunting Tool00:21:27 - Hunting and Survival in Mountain Ice Patches00:24:42 - Scaring Sticks and Preserved Artifacts00:27:57 - Ancient Remains Discovered: Champaign and Asiak Negotiate Rights00:32:37 - A World Without Ice: Melting Glaciers and Warming Temperatures00:35:25 - Climate Change's Unprecedented Threat00:37:34 - Redefining Wilderness: Honoring Indigenous Histories00:40:41 - Reducing Microplastics: Easy Steps for a Healthier EnvironmentFollow the adventures and interviews in real time at TrailLessTraveled.net and be sure to check out our visual series on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram.The radio version of the show premieres Sunday nights at 6 MST, streaming live online at Trail1033.com & locally (Missoula) on the Trail 103.3 FMWhy listen to the radio version instead of the podcast? Well, because the radio version includes music selected by the folks we interview!Please help us keep the podcast ad free by donating $3/month via PATREON. We really need your help, as of right now we are only brining in $79/month in donations.#travelpodcast #adventurepodcast #conservationpodcast #podcast #MONTANA #ecology #hunting #conservation #storytelling #adventure #travel #traillesstraveled #missoula #adventuretrave #climateaction #climatechange #climate #yellowstonenationalpark #lisabaril #ageofmelt