The Trail Less Traveled

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

Discover the remarkable story of how a Greek immigrant's fruit stand in early 1900s Missoula blossomed into Caras Nursery, a thriving family business spanning over 100 years. Bill Caras shares heartwarming tales of growing up in a close-knit community during the 1950s and 60s, where childhood adventures and family values shaped his future. Beyond the nursery, Bill reveals his passion for historical maps, sharing insights into rare cartographic treasures dating back to the 1500s. His collection offers fascinating glimpses into Montana's early development and the evolution of the American West.Join us for this captivating episode that weaves together family heritage, entrepreneurial spirit, and the deep roots that connect one family to their community.Show notes:00:04:18 - Family Business Transitions and Expansion00:06:43 - Returning to the Family Nursery00:08:43 - From Nursery Catalogs to Greek Roots00:11:24 - Family's Fruit Store and Nursery History00:13:05 - Childhood Home and Family History00:17:21 - Exploring Montana's Evolving Maps00:18:46 - Exploring Ancient Maps and Their History00:21:12 - Antique Maps: A Fascinating History00:24:56 - Exploring the Vibrant World of Plants00:26:38 - Balancing Nature and Deer in the Garden00:30:00 - Caring for Outdoor Plants: Watering, Pests, and Avoiding Damage00:34:09 - Native Plants and Landscaping Choices00:38:14 - Preserving Missoula's Spirit Through Kindness and Optimism00:40:14 - Advice for a Positive Life from a Nursery OwnerFollow 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 #carasnursery #plantlovers #botany #billcaras

Ramona Holt grew up in Montana’s ranching and rodeo scene, participating in youth, intercollegiate and professional rodeo. As an adult, she dedicated her life to promoting the western way of living, and for 30 years Ramona and her husband, Bill, traveled throughout the western United States, Canada and Australia promoting professional rodeo and the West. They started their own herd of Texas Longhorn Cattle in 1967 and were the first to export those cattle from the U.S. to Australia in 1985—leading to the government honoring them at an exposition in 1986 in Mackay, Australia.Today, as a trustee representing Western Montana for the Montana Cowboy Hall of Fame and Western Heritage Center, Ramona recommends people and ranches to be honored each year. In 2018, the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association honored her as the “Notable Lady of the West” at their World of Rodeo Reunion in Las Vegas. Her life has been dedicated to telling the story of the western way through many avenues including the creation of the Holt Heritage Museum—located in Lolo and open by appointment only—which houses rodeo and western artifacts, including 20 horse-drawn vehicles. Show notes: 00:03:10 - Growing Up on a Remote Ranch00:06:26 - A Life in Fisheries and Rodeo00:10:15 - Raising Money for Nonprofits through Art Shows00:12:36 - Exporting Longhorn Cattle to Australia00:14:46 - Grandchildren, Elders, and the Legacy of Lewis and Clark00:18:03 - Lewis and Clark's Military Camp Setup00:21:00 - Friendly Natives Aided Lewis and Clark00:23:48 - Cultivating Small-Scale Sustainability00:26:53 - Rich History of Indigenous Peoples in the Valley00:31:27 - Polywog Shirts and Nez Perce Artifacts00:34:11 - Preserving Native Traditions: Cornmeal and Moss Bags00:36:36 - Preserving the Valley's Heritage Follow 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 #ramonaholt #montanarodeo #montanaranch #montanaranching #montanacowgirl #cowgirl #montanahistory

Dr. Diane Boyd is a wildlife biologist who has 45+ years of applied expertise on behavior, conservation and management of wild wolf populations. She is the author of "A Woman Among Wolves: My Journey Through Forty Years of Wolf Recovery." She began her career in 1977 with Dr. L. David Mech’s wolf research project in Minnesota. She moved to Montana in 1979 to study gray wolf recovery in the Rocky Mountains from the first natural colonizer to approximately 2000 wolves today in the western U.S. Her work has focused on wolf ecology, dispersal, habitat use, prey selection, behavior, morphology, genetic relationships, and the social dimensions of wolf-human conflict resolution. She has collaborated on research in the Rocky Mountains of the U.S., British Columbia, Alberta, the Mexican Wolf Recovery Program, and wolf research projects in Italy and Romania. She has published numerous articles in scientific journals, invited book chapters, and articles in popular literature. She received her M.S. and Ph.D. from the University of Montana, and is presently an Affiliate Faculty member at the University of Montana. Diane recently retired from Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks as the Region 1 Wolf and Carnivore Specialist, but she is continuing her wolf conservation efforts on a broader scale through teaching and writing. You can support this podcast by donating a few dollars per month on Patreon! We really appreciate any contribution, no matter how small.Show Notes:00:02:54 - Discovering Wolves in the Wild00:05:20 - From Wildlife Biologist to Wolf Researcher: A Journey00:07:56 - Discovering the Rugged Beauty of Glacier National Park00:10:54 - Lone Wolf Survivor in Montana00:12:30 - The Wolves' Natural Migration to Montana00:14:36 - Wolves Roaming from Montana to Yellowstone00:16:59 - Wolves' Vocal Repertoire and Tracking Techniques00:20:46 - Saving a Hypothermic Wolf00:22:54 - Rescuing a Drugged Wolf in the Rain00:25:39 - Debunking the Wolf Relocation Myth00:27:33 - Comparing European and North American Wolves00:29:59 - Wolves: Misunderstood Neighbors00:32:06 - Coexisting with Wolves: Balancing Livestock and Ecosystem Needs00:36:08 - Wolves and Other Predators in the Ecosystem00:37:23 - Weaving Science, Ecology, and Resilience00:39:30 - Preventing Chronic Wasting Disease in MontanaFollow 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!#travelpodcast #adventurepodcast #conservationpodcast #podcast #MONTANA #ecology #hunting #conservation #storytelling #adventure #travel #traillesstraveled #missoula #adventuretravel #dianeboyd #wolves #wolf #wolfconservation #glaciernationalpark #yellowstonenationalpark

Marilyn Marler holds a Bachelor's degree from University of California, Davis and a Master's degree from the University of Montana, both in Biology. She has been a Natural Areas Specialist at the University of Montana since 1998. Marilyn brings 25 years’ experience in land stewardship, science education, and public service to her role at MNHC. She grew up in the Sierra Nevada foothills, attended UC Davis for her biology degree, and moved to Missoula in 1994 for a master’s in biology at the University of Montana. For the last 28 years Marilyn and her husband David have enjoyed Missoula’s vibrant community spirit and Montana’s unmatched outdoor pursuits. She has served on the boards of many state and local non-profits and has served in elected office in both city and state government.Show notes: 00:04:28 - Growing Up in the Sierra Nevada Foothills00:07:02 - Hunting, Conservation, and Personal Journey00:10:39 - The Role of Hunters in Conservation00:12:24 - Promoting Nature Appreciation Through Education00:14:58 - Free Nature Exploration for Young Kids00:17:57 - Embracing Native Plants and Art Exploration00:20:07 - The Benefits of Membership00:23:22 - Life as a Montana Legislator00:26:01 - The Hectic Life of a Legislator00:28:25 - Passion for Native Plants and Land Stewardship00:31:22 - The Fragile Beauty of Montana's Wildflowers00:33:07 - Appreciating Nature in Missoula00:35:09 - Fostering Nature Connection through Classroom Mentorship00:38:28 - Inspiring the Next Generation of Nature Stewards00:41:02 - Montana Natural History Center Staff and Board share their PassionYou can support this podcast by donating a few dollars per month on Patreon! We really appreciate any contribution, no matter how small.Follow 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!This episode was recorded on location in collaboration with Xplorer Maps. We want to extend boatloads of gratitude to Xplorer Maps for their generous support of this podcast and international outreach programs paired with conservation projects.#travelpodcast #adventurepodcast #conservationpodcast #podcast #MONTANA #ecology #hunting #conservation #MontanaNaturalHistoryCenter #storytelling #adventure #travel #traillesstraveled #missoula #haines #adventuretravel

Bart Henderson, a retired international river guide, shares his experiences growing up in Utah and being part of the early river rafting industry. He describes how the town of Vernal and the Green River were central to the development of companies like Hatch River Expeditions, which pioneered commercial rafting. Bart's early exposure to the river guiding business sparked his lifelong passion for adventure and exploration, leading him to guide expeditions in diverse ecosystems around the world, from Alaska to Ethiopia.Experience the thrills and challenges of navigating remote waterways, from battling powerful winds to managing wildlife encounters, as Bart shares insights from decades of guiding experience across diverse ecosystems. His story culminates in the successful establishment of Chilkat Guides, proving that adventure tourism can breathe new life into local economies.Join us for this fascinating journey through the history of river rafting and discover how one man's passion for adventure helped chart new courses in global expedition tourism.Listen now to hear firsthand accounts of these remarkable river adventures that shaped modern expedition rafting.Show notes:00:07:46 - From River Kid to Boatman00:10:33 - Pioneering International River Guiding00:13:08 - Exploring the Gaba River: A Risky Adventure00:15:09 - Harrowing Rescue Mission on the Alsek River00:19:21 - Navigating the Alsek River: Challenges and Logistics00:21:33 - Guiding on Whitewater Rivers: Challenges and Rewards00:24:46 - Navigating the Unique Challenges of Glacial River Guiding00:27:36 - Mastering the Portagee Stroke: Efficient Rowing Techniques00:29:47 - Navigating Braided Rivers and Dangerous Channels00:33:45 - Navigating Treacherous River Channels00:36:45 - Pioneering River Guiding Across the Globe00:38:27 - Advice for Aspiring River Guides: Have Fun, Take Care of Your Body, and Plan for the Future!You can support this podcast by donating a few dollars per month on Patreon! We really appreciate any contribution, no matter how small.Follow 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!This episode was recorded on location in collaboration with Xplorer Maps. We want to extend boatloads of gratitude to Xplorer Maps for their generous support of this podcast and international outreach programs paired with conservation projects. #travelpodcast #adventurepodcast #conservationpodcast #podcast #alaska #alsek #tatshenshini #whitewaterrafting #rafting #whitewater #storytelling #adventure #travel #traillesstraveled #missoula #haines #adventuretravel

Step into the fascinating world of mountain lions with Jim Williams, a veteran wildlife biologist with over 30 years of experience in large carnivore conservation. Often referred to as the "ghosts of the forest", in this episode Jim shares captivating insights about these magnificent predators that roam the Americas.Through his remarkable career journey, Jim has championed wildlife conservation efforts in the Northern Rockies, fighting to protect crucial habitats from increasing development pressures. His work has been instrumental in securing conservation easements that preserve both public access and wildlife corridors, especially during the recent pandemic-driven population surge in the region.The episode delves into mountain lions' unique hunting strategies, their solitary nature, and their ability to thrive across diverse landscapes. Jim also addresses common misconceptions about large carnivores and shares wisdom gained from decades of field experience. Ready to discover the secret life of America's most enigmatic big cat? Tune in to hear Jim's extraordinary tales from the wild and learn why these powerful predators deserve our respect and protection.Show notes:00:03:05 - From Surfing to Conservation00:04:37 - Diverse Wildlife Management Roles in Montana00:07:30 - Preserving Land and Sharing Conservation Experiences00:12:47 - Conserving Vital Landscapes for Wildlife and People00:16:58 - Introducing the Elusive Mountain Lion00:20:13 - Risks and Realities of Mountain Lion Hunting00:24:35 - Respecting the Role of Large Carnivores00:27:01 - How Wolves Impact Mountain Lion Hunting Patterns00:30:15 - Ecological Benefits of Large Carnivores00:32:57 - Connecting People and Place with Xplorer Maps00:35:32 - Preserving Wildlife Corridors Through Private Land Conservation00:41:55 - Coexisting with Mountain Lions in Montana00:44:46 - Balancing Tolerance and Conservation00:48:09 - Don't Take No for an Answer: Advice for Persistence and Positivity00:49:50 - Prioritize Your Stress WiselyYou can support this podcast by donating a few dollars per month on Patreon! We really appreciate any contribution, no matter how small.Follow 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!This episode was recorded on location in collaboration with Xplorer Maps. We want to extend boatloads of gratitude to Xplorer Maps for their generous support of this podcast and international outreach programs paired with conservation projects. #travelpodcast #adventurepodcast #conservationpodcast #podcast