I know the area to some extent, living in the NW. This hot spring has a rather dubious history, James is not the first to mysteriously die at, or near, this hot spring. After Jama’s death, the Park's department placed the hot spring's off limits for about two years. There are at least 5, or more, mysterious deaths associated with the hot springs in the past decade. With that said, there is a logical explanation to these deaths associated with this hot spring. This may be a surprise to many people, and it's something that is rarely considered, but a friend of mine told me the following story: he hiked up to the hot springs about 25 years ago on a cold day (approx. 38F), with some friends. He bathed in the hot springs for hours, longer than his friends. The temperature of the hot springs is about 89 degrees. Body temperature is about 98 degrees. After hours of relaxing in the springs, my friend found that he was unable to climb out, and began suffering from convulsions, shivering, and hallucinations. The water temperature, though warm to the outside air temperature, still brought his body core temperature to under 90 degrees, and he was suffering from critical hypothermia. His friends carried him out and had to bring his body temperature back up by putting him in a sleeping bag etc. in their heated vehicle and take him to a hospital. I would suspect James had suffered from hypothermia in this particular method, without realizing it, and had become disoriented and confused on the way back to his vehicle.
This is quite an interesting scenario you suggest Lewis. People can do some strange things while experiencing hypothermia. Rest in Peace James. Condolences to his family. :(
I was in the forest next to our farm the other day. We live in the Pacific Northwest just north of where your story took place. While I was hiking around in the bush everything went silent. I’ve never experienced such a silence in the forest before. Thankfully one of our roosters broke the silence with a rooster howl I could clearly hear. Still, it was creepy. I also found a dead deer about 100 yards away from our farm house into the bush. It was laying under a cedar tree. Probably killed by a cougar and I’m sure the cougar was watching me as I walked around it’s kill. I was armed and alert, but when the forest went silent, it really gave me a pause.
I have been to Olympic National Park, only once, in July 2023. I went for my birthday, and stayed in a cabin with two friends in the northwest portion if the park, near Forks. We are all recently graduated college students, all 'city girls' so to speak, and know nothing about wildlife. I noticed while there that I could not hear any birds, and there was an eerie silence that took over the complete surrounding area of where we were staying. I even commented on it too, and my two friends agreed it was bizarre there were no birds literally in the middle of the woods. I knew something was off, and refused to travel anywhere on foot without a lighter and a sharp, human sized walking stick the owners of the cabin had for the visitors to use while hiking. I remember vividly, every time we would walk down the trail directly leading to the river by the cabin, my head would swing from bush to bush because my body refused to let it's guard down, for even just a moment, until we were safely inside or at least very close to the cabin. I thought it was my paranoia and anxiety setting in, since the trail was less than a quarter of a mile long, and it was a direct path. It seemed safe, and simple, so I couldn't understand why I felt so off about it. On the last day we were there, the birds returned. I looked up later why there would be no birds, and found out that there was likely a predator in the immediate area for a majority of our trip. My paranoia and anxiety was likely my instinct telling me that something was watching. It was a very remote cabin, with neighbors not being visible in the slightest. It made me realize that we were lucky to not come across anything---and I thanked my instincts for knowing something was wrong and carrying along some kind of weapon, because I know for a fact something was there that could have killed one of us had we been less on guard. I watch videos like this religiously and still could not connect the dots as to why there was no birds. But it is because of these kinds of videos, I knew something was wrong, and was well aware of how to never underestimate the wilderness. The Olympic National Park is known to be rather safe and family friendly, but that is only in terms of accessible terrain. It does not account for the predators, or other creepy things that may arise.
Allow me to add, despite my already novel length comment, that there was a moment during this trip where I had really wanted to go on a solo walk after having a few drinks ON my birthday. Despite my paranoia, and prior to knowing why there were no birds. Since, it's easy for alcohol to dull down your capacity for common sense, and I am an introvert. Peace, quiet , solitude in the woods was my ideal birthday gift. There were a few trails through the woods near us, directly from the cabin, and I felt that it would be safe enough since the woods weren't as dense on the walk I wanted to go on. I walked up to the trail (the head was indicated by an opening in the brush, directly next to the cabin) and took two steps down, and was immediately overcome with a sense of complete dread. I cannot remember if it was a noise that caused this, or a feeling, but I turned my ass right back. Instinct is real, people. And it works best in the wilderness because it's all you have to rely on. I will never know, but perhaps in a parallel universe, I continued on and ignored that feeling of dread in place of wishing for some time alone---and in that universe, I am considered missing without a trace. Edit: Now that I have finished the video, I am rather confident that this situation was a combination of oncoming hypothermia and a run in with an animal. But due to his hypothermic brain, or the suddenness of the perceived threat, he was not able to grab the belongings that could help towards his survival. Or, he felt by leaving it behind, the threat would go away after that---but instead, he was seen as a threat by the animal, not food, so it continued to pursue him. The only thing off about it is him being found up the mountain, since, wouldn't a predator try to chase a threat down the mountain, not up further? That's why I think it could've been a brief 'oh shit' moment, he did what he was supposed to (i.e keeping your eye carefully trained on the animal while pacing backwards), but then after the animal had left him alone finally, he found himself stuck in complete and utter darkness. Fearful to go back down the mountain due to the animal, he had no choice but to venture up further and hope for the best.
I live in the Sequim \ port Angeles area …. And I can tell you I’ve seen some scary supernatural stuff that I can’t explain from the Olympic Mountains …. Don’t go alone
I hiked to Martha Lake in Goddard Canyon. I was tired and sat against a big boulder. I took my day pack off. I then walked closer to the lake for more photos. I made a simple mistake of not putting my back pack on top of the boulder and then had to search for it. There were lots of boulders in the area. I had a GPS and was able to follow my trail back to the pack...otherwise I might never have found it! I was 9 miles from my base camp. I am a former Fresno County SAR member. We all make simple mistakes that could end up badly.
Having worked as a trail crew worker and SAR team member of the National Park Service, I’m only more shocked that more people don’t turn up missing, I could write a book on unbelievable questions I’ve been asked while maintaining trails. PS- many people come to National Parks with no intention of ever leaving.
I agree with that. People of all walks of life have gone missing in parks, some with notes & others with none. The family’s rarely admit to mental issues because they think it will impact the search or the taboo in there culture.
Suicide by hypothermia? Wow that would be a rough way to go. But I'm sure people go out there to die sometimes. Doesn't account for all the missing 411 type stuff.
I was an NPS ranger so I understand how naive people can be-but none of that seems relevant in this case except for the possibility of suicide, given that he was a local and experienced hiker who knew that area well and was on an easy trail.
I lived in Port Angeles and have spent lots of time out there in the woods. A friend and I had a terrorizing incident on that trail, at night, in January of 2005. I’m convinced a Bigfoot was screaming at us. Something crept up on us while walking back, and started screaming, grunting, breaking large branches. I thought we were gonna die. It eventually walked off slowly and we walked out. There was also fresh snow on the ground and we were the only ones out there due to lack of any other cars at the trailhead, or tracks.
Scary! Never experienced anything in my time on the Olympic Peninsula (lived in Sequim for 4 1/2 years), but I love hearing other people's experiences. I was fascinated to learn Ron Morehead (of the Sierra Sounds) also lived in Sequim.
I live right on the doorstep of the Olympics, its an amazing little corner of the country. It is its own self contained massive wilderness area. Its like a small nation in and of itself.
To leave your gear and go up higher in elevation near nightfall means to me something spooked him enough to immediately leave the area to get somewhere safer. Also, whatever it was kept him from going back to get his survival pack and chose to stay put and freeze to death.
I thought the same thing until a lady named Susan said she knew him, he had a bad leg and couldn't have climbed a thousand feet straight up. But how would he get there?
Interesting story. I get baffled by the stories of people disappearing that were only 50-100 yards away from others in their family/group. I’m always carrying my sidearm when I’m out because you never know. Two legged creatures are the main threat. Love the channel, keep them coming.
Great advice. I was a soldier and slept in the bush for a living and the only creature to be wary of has two legs as you stated. If you can go in pairs or small group for security and ALWAYS have your weapon.
So as someone who hikes in ONP regularly the national park service does not like firearms in the park at all. They do not honor my Washington conceal carry and I have to open carry unloaded. So in my experience most people don’t carry in the park for that reason.
@@darrenfitzgerald8354 I wouldn't give a damn if my life depended on it! Drug runners have accosted people who run up on them with their rifles! What the park fools don't know doesn't matter.
Honestly being a very experienced hiker doesn’t amount to much when you’re confronted with Mother Nature and the mystery of the wilderness.. where I come from it had nothing to do with big foot etc .. it was more of an understanding that you’re not the sum total of all knowledge.. respect the unknown.. the presence of a force we can’t comprehend at our limited level of consciousness..
Those people were hikers first and foremost. Chris is a video creator. In this capacity, it's a VERY different situation. People need to seriously realize that NOTHING is ever what it appears to be. - BTW Fear - will foster one of 2 things, leading to one of 3. 1)Courage. or 2)Cowardice. > 3)Wisdom + -.(or Lack of it) ~ Do not confuse Bravery with Courage.
When you have a man of that age, who's an experienced hiker, and knows that area well, you have to believe he wanted to die. When you have a "single" older man, and no family to live for, sometimes dark emotions can take over, and cause this to occur.
When you have a man of that age, who's an experienced hiker, and knows that area well, you have to believe he wanted to die. When you have a "single" older man, and no family to live for, sometimes dark emotions can take over, and cause this to occur.
I don't know how he went missing. It's the easiest trail on the planet. Kids and elderly people walk on that trail. I've been there. It's only 2 miles long from the parking lot.
Sounds like a medical event and most likely hypothermia was involved. I have been in the Olympic Park remote backpacking and camping many miles in. I've also been a victim of hypothermia. Many people misunderstand hypothermia. It doesn't have to be below freezing to get hypothermia! My personal story involves capsizing my canoe in 50 degree weather in a remote wilderness area. Because the water temperature was much colder I started to develop hypothermia almost instantly after swimming to shore. Because of my experience and training I knew to get my wet clothes off and start a fire. Rule #1 is to always carry at least 5 ways to start a fire. With teeth chattering and extreme shivering I established a fire and was drying my clothes out. Within an hour or two I was feeling better again. Rule #2 is to always let someone know where you are going and when you should be back. Rule #3 is to remain in place. Don't move or attempt to walk out. It hinders searchers looking for you. Focus on maintaining a fire and staying dry and warm. I was found by a helicopter that spotted my fire less then 16 hours later. The important thing to know about hypothermia is that it sets in quickly, causing confusion and disorientation making the victim to do things that don't make sense. Sadly, I think that's what happened to James. He probably went in the hot spring and then began to cool off too quickly. Confusion and disorientation set in quickly due to hypothermia. Sadly he didn't know to start a fire or was so confused that he didn't. There's no doubt in my mind that hypothermia took his life. As far as Bigfoot and UFO'S, I'm here to tell you they are both very real and I've had many encounters in my 60 years of being on this planet.
Help me out .. trying to follow your reasoning So you’re saying he was able to warm water to prepare his food, set his backpack and towel neatly against a tree while hypothermia was setting in ? I don’t understand why since night fall was setting in why did he stop to prepare food, he lived nearby .
I don't know if Bigfoot exist, I've personally have never seen one. I believe it's more of a paranormal image because when this one man took a picture of one. He took his camera to a specialist and the footage flicker. That means it's not real but a paranormal image. I'm not here to tell anyone on what to believe in but, until I actually see one, or authorities actually catch one of these beings then I will change my mind. Till then I believe it's a paranormal image.
It was raining that day on the 22nd and the next day and every day after for weeks on end! 😂🤣I don't miss that about Washington. Wonderful story telling once again.❤
it sounds like a surprise caught him offguard and he ran, became disoriented in the dark and perished in the night. my heartfelt condolences to his family and just goes to show for how resilient we are as people our lives can be fragile too.
Hey Chris, I have a theory on what happened to James. So, here in the States we don't have anywhere to go, I hate to say this, to commit suicide. But Japan does and it's the Aokigahara Forest. My theory is that he was preparing his last meal and just changed his mind. He walked far away from his site, climbed the ridge at a distance where he thought nobody would look, and he just fell asleep. He knew good and well it would've been his last sleep. I do believe in the Paranormal and aliens doing weird stuff to people in our nation's national parks. But when I hear stories like this, it just seems like these people wanted to end their lives and did so in the most peaceful way possible. They loved hiking, knew the areas well, and neatly folded their clothing or stacked their belongings to indicate no foul play. Most, if not all, loved ones are in denial when it comes to their family members or friends even considering suicide or showing signs. Most won't show any. James froze to death with a beautiful view.
I had told some of my sisters that if I ever got a terminal illness I would not do the medical/hospital stuff. I would go to a beautiful wilderness and camp and hike till SOMETHING got me. Hopefully not human. ❤
So as you note, it sounds like he was eating his meal, and "something" interrupted him. You say that it seems as if something scared him, and that is why he left his campsite, and while that may be true, there is another possibility as well. I wonder if he saw something that intrigued him, and decided to try and follow it? I will leave it to anyone reading this, who is familiar with the lore of the Pacific Northwest, what "intriguing" thing might entice someone to try and follow it.
You failed to mention he had a bad leg which would definitely make a straight-up climb impossible. I knew this man. He knew where he was. That was his 'spot' off the trail. And he knew if you're lost to stay where tf you are so someone could find you.
Hi Susan , I grew up in Port Townsend and have been to these hot springs several times. Even before they made the trail so much longer due to washout. James looks very familiar to me. Is your gut feeling that it was foul play or something more 411-ish ? I used to love , love camping , hiking , climbing , beach camping/walking out there , but I don’t go anymore . And I don’t ever expect to again . Too many experienced and responsible and sensible people going missing . I feel for his family and his friends . Not something you ever get over , especially without answers . Take care ! Lisa
Then Susan how do you explain how he got one thousand feet up unless it was fear which got the adrenaline going? When that happens you can accomplish a lot more than you can normally.
@@lisacolbert5987 Jim was well known around town. You may have seen him. I don't go to rural sites anymore without company. Rule number 1- the buddy system... There ARE unusual things that happen up here...
When you have a man of that age, who's an experienced hiker, and knows that area well, you have to believe he wanted to die. When you have a "single" older man, and no family to live for, sometimes dark emotions can take over, and cause this to occur.
I moved here in Elwha, just west of Port Angeles about 5 years ago. I grew up in central Pennsylvania, and had a few things happen there that made me question this whole topic. Now that I live 10 minutes from where this happened, I have no more questions. I was a zoo professional for decades and know my lions, bears, apes, canines, and crocodiles very well. What I hear in the middle of the night here,.........answers.
We have been here 20 years. Grew up in the 60s and 70s in the woods and swamps of Florida. We to have seen, heard, and smelled things here in Washington that are so much different than home in Florida. The woods are so much more dense. Even more than the swamps in Florida. The few times the woods here went silent, it was creepy. I backpacked by myself no problem back east. I don't here in Washington.
The drinks you show the Beers and the root beers we have those in San Antonio Texas, so I’m gonna have all my camping stuff together in my living room the cold brews and popcorn😀
I realize its dangerous but i appreciate as a viewer when you tell the scary stories with the flashlight. And then hike out in the dark. It adds alot to the whole feel of it. Thanks for all you do Chris.
There would be no reason for him to go straight uphill without him knowing that he would have to go back down to get to where his pack was. I feel he was threatened in some way and ran uphill to get away. Thanks for another great mystery, Chris!
Perhaps!! Folks n eeds educated befores they go hiking venturing s out in these wilds untamed forest & lands & rivers ECT. Foresures there no walk in the parks ! As these animals out there's needs toos fetch & catch there's meals ! There's little ones toos feeds in many cases !! Besides !! All's folks out in these parks ECT. Be alerts stays safe out there's !
There is a woman in comments named Susan that said he could not have walked up there. He had a bum leg that would prevent him from climbing up that. She said his stuff was found at "his spot" and that he never walked all the way down to the hot springs.
While day hiking with a woman in Mt Rainier NP, we had a similar experience. An inadequate and dying flashlight led to us missing the trail in the dark on the return trip. However, we ended up fine because it was May rather than December. We simply stayed where we were until the sun came up. Though we didn't get much sleep, when it was light it was easy to see where we had missed the trail on the way out. The only real difference between our predicament and James's was roughly 20 degrees warmer and longer days, shorter nights. We'll never know why James struggled up another 1000 feet. Who knows? Maybe he thought the struggle would help keep him warmer. It's anybody's guess, really.
@@basecampchris I just stumbled onto your channel. Great stuff. Have you heard of the Russian hunter , Sergey ? I believe thats spelled right. .. camping in Siberian wilderness and something came after him. Very scary stuff. All caught on camera
Thanks for the way you introduce this subject matter. I am a long time listener of your channel but I have never made any comments. What really shines is that you do not place an overwhelming emphasis on the paranormal or other David Paulides theories. I was a member or a Northern California SAR team, my job was rotary aviation. I have also hiked into Desolation Wilderness, PCT, Appalachian Trail and many more areas. I thought I heard that Mr. Griffin was a rock hound of sorts, and that he collected samples of different type of geology. I may have the wrong case, I was not present of this one, but wasnt it suspected that the reason he was so high up was that earlier in the day he discovered some interesting geology? Two week after this incident a friend of his who is a world renowned Geologist was inside an abandoned mine with his older son. They dislodged some overburden from a ore shoot and the Geologist son was buried from the rock fall of over burden. I was present there and I recall that this man was friends with your subject. I believe that one must always traverse with a buddy. Going out on even a day hike alone is not advised, many content creators say they are along while making videos, but in reality they have someone with them off camera. I do not think you do, please be careful
David Paulides theories he would have a big problem with you calling his work his theories have you even read his books he has written 12 books and has been on coast to coast many , many times he has made it clear repeatedly he has no theories whatsoever. he has pounded that point home everytime he is asked. if you don't believe that listen to any of his hour long interviews on coast to coast with George norry.
Exactly what are David Paulides theories. He never says what he thinks, but he gives us the information, asks questions, and allows the listener or reader to ponder what’s happening.
Love your channel! I have hiked the Boulder Creek Trail several times. Camped at Boulder Creek and have been in the hot springs. It is a very easy trail to follow. I am really surprised that this would have happened to him there. He was very close to the trailhead. He must have been spooked by something.
Spent plenty of time in the Olympics. Have had plenty of times when something has been there that was not happy. What it was don't know. But still love it there.
I do this trail often, I am surprised this is my first time hearing about James. Thank you for covering this! The trail is now a 10+ mile hike in after the removal of the Elwha dam washed away the main entrance road. Very cool secluded hot springs now, I usually have the whole place to myself.
I live in Nevada and listened to missing hiker videos all last winter on you tube. Always hiked with my dogs alone even though people thought I was crazy and now have such anxiety that I haven’t hiked unless Im with others. Here I am to listening to another story😂. Nevada is so remote it is easy to disappear without a trace. I just found your channel looking at your Pyramid lake video from 6 yrs ago. I visited that area few years ago by myself again … and it was beautiful and eerie all at the same time. Great videos thanks 😊
Hi Chris. I’m new to your channel. Just wanted to say I have really enjoyed catching up on all your videos! Great story teller! Thank you for the entertainment!
Chris? Why dont you take someone with you on your hiking journey's? I'd feel more comfortable knowing you're protected at least. People say never hike alone, in case you encounter danger.
@@basecampchris I don't thinks Toxicology report on a month old body could possibly show a specific micotoxin. Because fungus invades every fiber of tissue on a rotting corpse. After even a few days above freezing - even if the environment was generally.cold.and maybe frozen. And Olympics have variable temps. It goes above freezing temps ten or.more days, every single month in winter. Unless you are very high in elevation. Because all the periphery of the park is a coastal zone with mild temperature. He could have accidentally eaten something that made him sick, maybe related to.fungus. Or it was suicide.
@Melissa Paley it's truly a shame that you have to be afraid. I understand why, though. Time's are changing for the worst, and that's sad. Always carry protection with you. And when you go hiking, go with friends. Stay safe.
@@MegaSusanc I don't believe she said they scare her. She only implied that this one was tragic. At a campfire years ago, way out west, some of the group wanted to hear scary stories. They asked me to tell one and all I said was l. i. f. e. With the way people act and treat each other in the day to day, it's absolutely frightening. I Thank The ALL MIGHTY everyday for being there for me, holding me up and making me strong. Now the only thing I fear is losing HIM, for HE is always with us❤
My older sister lives in Minnesota, way up near Hibbing. Been there several times and you can definitely hear the accent in Chris as he talks. Accents rarely 100% leave you.
I lived in Port Angeles, WA at the time. Most beautiful country I’ve ever lived in. It was around the same time another hiker was gored to death by a mountain goat in the same general area.
I used to be on Search & Rescue. 90% of people who get lost go down hill, not uphill. Obviously in this case he was either looking for something or being chased up hill.
He had a foot injury and where he was found was across a creek and up a difficult climb to the ledge. I'm hearing different stories so I figured I'd look into it a bit more.
I've been backpacking, day hiking and camping in Olympic National Park since I was a child; your verbal description was spot on! In my opinion, it is an especially erie forest (in all the diiferent sections and different types of forests) yet all stunningly beautiful. I felt creeped out several times, even as a child. Rest in peace James Griffen.
Im surprised that our national Parks don't have a gps tracking bracelet that they give to each hiker for a small fee.. and recover that bracelet when the hiker returns back to the check station.
Hello Chris. Greetings from a tiny hamlet in deepest Dorset, England. Where did you buy the mug you have there. Keep up the good work, loving every story you tell alongside the beautiful scenery. All the best now.
I think I saw those mugs at a dollar store and at Walmart. They are called mule mugs for those mule drinks (alcoholic beverage) that came out in the last so many years. Moscow Mule drinks. I think.
Hey Chris, every week i patiently look forward to these type of videos. This one sounds like one of the missing 411 stories. It can be very simple sometimes why a person vanishes as you mentioned. But this one sounded very eerie.
1. Don't understand the uphill hike after the meal. Especially in darkness. 2. But I understand even less getting off the trail ... so close to his car, on his way out ... to cook a meal in dusk about 1/2 (?) mile from his car. 3) Getting lost in the darkness, off the trail ... I get that. 4) Great stories Chris!
@@basecampchris you are welcome and please stay safe too many people go missing in the woods just be careful we want to enjoy your videos for along time to come
Love the way you tell a story, it's like I was sitting across from you, nice and calm, some channels talk so fast and you can tell there reading a script, very unjoyable
I recognized Hurricane Ridge and Sol Duc Falls in your opening photos. I love Olympic National Park and grew up spending lots of time there. Sol Duc Hot Springs is the best! So beautiful & peaceful. It's pretty darn "Sasquatchie" around these parts, so I wouldn't be surprised if this story had something to do with that... Something very strange went down for that poor man. I'm a true believer in Sasquatch and I've had my own experience with whatever bigfoot is. The Olympic Peninsula has a lot of Sasquatch activity. Though there are a lot of nonbelievers, it's one of those things you have to experience for yourself, then your whole world changes forever. All I can say, is that there is something out there. 🌲🌲🌲🏔🌲🌲🌲
Chris I found your channel about a week about and have been watching it daily! Does the camera give you a scene of security while in remote areas? I don't know if I could go in those areas and talk about these stories lol! Keep it up brother! Stay safe!
There are many, many stories of mysterious disappearances in the National Parks. Many have happened in broad daylight when people were not hiking or camping alone. Another great video! Stay safe dude!
Hypothermia can happen very quickly and doesn't just happen with very cold weather. I got the very early stages of it when I went for a trail run near my home here in southern California several years ago. It was was a nice winter day with the high around 60 partly cloudy and it started to sprinkle just a little bit and that was enough to cause me to get cold very quickly I began to get disoriented and confused but I got home and warmed up very quickly. I was lucky that I recognized the early signs and was close to home.
I hate that for him and his family. Thank you for the video. I hike quite often. Sometimes with my wife. Sometimes alone. Safety has to be the first concern. Anything can happen. Thanks again for your videos. I love them
Hey Chris love your channel by the way. Question does it ever make you a little nervous to tell these stories about experienced hikers that disappear when you are out there hiking on your own?
Love your videos Chris...you just seem to have a knack for these kind of stories. I would love to share mine with you and your viewers but I'm not sure where to send it. I'm old as dirt and not much of an Internet user. How do I get my story to you? God Bless.
@@basecampchris Thank you Chris...I will send it there. Just a note, I also lived in Port Angeles at the base of Mt Olympic. Only lived there for one year tho.....too much rain. I didn't realize that it was the only natural rain forest in the US until we had moved there. I quickly moved back to Sugar Pine just above Sonora CA. I sure love the Sierra Nevada Range...it's home to me. I'll get my story to you....thank you and God Bless.
First thought he was surprised by something & ran then thought of the re sealed food & thought maybe he thought he heard some one calling out in distress or something & went looking & got lost . Very strange 👍 thumbs up thanks Chris stay safe & always carry a personal locator beacon & let people know where your going & when your due back as Dave paulides missing 411 always reminds us 🍻 cheers from the Northern Rivers NSW Australia 🇦🇺
I live in the area and have been up to those springs a few times. I have heard that lithium collects naturally in those hot springs. Pretty sure a bad interaction with that could really play with your mind
Hey Chris. My guy and I recently discovered your channel. We love it! We also love the beer. Just bought some Voodoo Ranger today. Take care on the trails.
hey chris been following you from the start and love your vids, could you do a hike/camp video soon as they are my favorite thanks heaps mate jason from down under,
Honestly Olympic National Park once you get passed Port Angeles as a local I can confirm to many people go missing national park related or not the back county is truly we're you always have to be on your toes
I lived in PA til 20013. That is a very easy hike, and the hot springs are very popular. This case has bothered me terribly. What you didn't mention is that James was disabled, an injury. For him to suddenly go 1,000 feet up would have been just something he couldn't have done. And whatever happened was very fast. This is not normal, but not altogether unheard of in that national forest. Terribly sad.
I watch a lot of these type videos that some are being retold by different you tubers. I may have already heard this story but You do it better. I wanna know the beer your drinking and am I the only weirdo that likes the sound of crunching earth underneath someones feet that the mic picks up while walking? LoL keep up the good work and the places you hike are amazing!
This story is so sad and so many families don't know what happened to their loved ones. So many people go missing here in the PNW, for novice and experienced, tell someone where your going, when your going to be back, have the main 10 Hiking essentials, if possible hike with a buddy, make sure to have warm clothes (few ways to start a fire) watch the weather, plan your hike, have a route kinda planned leave a map with someone, the list goes on. Our SARs teams are Amazing, and some people put a lot of people at risk if something happens. It's beautiful to hike and dangerous all at once. Be prepared and you may have to help someone else out. Safe Hiking Everyone. Chris stay safe and enjoy those trail's enjoy your Adventures waiting for the next one.
Chris love your story telling. I hope you carry a PLB and emergency items like bear spray when you are doing exactly what the people that go missing are doing. Becareful and stay safe. Looking forward to your next video hike. Thanks for sharing.
I can only suppose. He got scared by noises. Freaked out and got lost. Fear does crazy stuff to ones mind. That is just one possible answer since they didn't find animal tracks near his camp
I know the area to some extent, living in the NW. This hot spring has a rather dubious history, James is not the first to mysteriously die at, or near, this hot spring. After Jama’s death, the Park's department placed the hot spring's off limits for about two years. There are at least 5, or more, mysterious deaths associated with the hot springs in the past decade.
With that said, there is a logical explanation to these deaths associated with this hot spring. This may be a surprise to many people, and it's something that is rarely considered, but a friend of mine told me the following story: he hiked up to the hot springs about 25 years ago on a cold day (approx. 38F), with some friends. He bathed in the hot springs for hours, longer than his friends. The temperature of the hot springs is about 89 degrees. Body temperature is about 98 degrees. After hours of relaxing in the springs, my friend found that he was unable to climb out, and began suffering from convulsions, shivering, and hallucinations. The water temperature, though warm to the outside air temperature, still brought his body core temperature to under 90 degrees, and he was suffering from critical hypothermia.
His friends carried him out and had to bring his body temperature back up by putting him in a sleeping bag etc. in their heated vehicle and take him to a hospital. I would suspect James had suffered from hypothermia in this particular method, without realizing it, and had become disoriented and confused on the way back to his vehicle.
This is quite an interesting scenario you suggest Lewis. People can do some strange things while experiencing hypothermia. Rest in Peace James. Condolences to his family. :(
That’s a really good guess! Impressive! I wish we knew for sure
Excellent theory it's very possible this was his experience nice job!
You cant suffer from hypothermia in 89F water. the temp has to be much colder than that. something else was going on.
Yes I am pretty sure that happened. Ever fell asleep in the bathtub and woke up feeling really cold? Yea that could be what happened.
I was in the forest next to our farm the other day. We live in the Pacific Northwest just north of where your story took place. While I was hiking around in the bush everything went silent. I’ve never experienced such a silence in the forest before. Thankfully one of our roosters broke the silence with a rooster howl I could clearly hear. Still, it was creepy. I also found a dead deer about 100 yards away from our farm house into the bush. It was laying under a cedar tree. Probably killed by a cougar and I’m sure the cougar was watching me as I walked around it’s kill. I was armed and alert, but when the forest went silent, it really gave me a pause.
What has that to do with Jims disappearance?
I understand, tho. The forest does have its secrets
I've been to the area where James disappeared. Very creepy area.
I have been to Olympic National Park, only once, in July 2023. I went for my birthday, and stayed in a cabin with two friends in the northwest portion if the park, near Forks. We are all recently graduated college students, all 'city girls' so to speak, and know nothing about wildlife. I noticed while there that I could not hear any birds, and there was an eerie silence that took over the complete surrounding area of where we were staying. I even commented on it too, and my two friends agreed it was bizarre there were no birds literally in the middle of the woods. I knew something was off, and refused to travel anywhere on foot without a lighter and a sharp, human sized walking stick the owners of the cabin had for the visitors to use while hiking. I remember vividly, every time we would walk down the trail directly leading to the river by the cabin, my head would swing from bush to bush because my body refused to let it's guard down, for even just a moment, until we were safely inside or at least very close to the cabin. I thought it was my paranoia and anxiety setting in, since the trail was less than a quarter of a mile long, and it was a direct path. It seemed safe, and simple, so I couldn't understand why I felt so off about it.
On the last day we were there, the birds returned. I looked up later why there would be no birds, and found out that there was likely a predator in the immediate area for a majority of our trip. My paranoia and anxiety was likely my instinct telling me that something was watching. It was a very remote cabin, with neighbors not being visible in the slightest. It made me realize that we were lucky to not come across anything---and I thanked my instincts for knowing something was wrong and carrying along some kind of weapon, because I know for a fact something was there that could have killed one of us had we been less on guard.
I watch videos like this religiously and still could not connect the dots as to why there was no birds. But it is because of these kinds of videos, I knew something was wrong, and was well aware of how to never underestimate the wilderness. The Olympic National Park is known to be rather safe and family friendly, but that is only in terms of accessible terrain. It does not account for the predators, or other creepy things that may arise.
Allow me to add, despite my already novel length comment, that there was a moment during this trip where I had really wanted to go on a solo walk after having a few drinks ON my birthday. Despite my paranoia, and prior to knowing why there were no birds. Since, it's easy for alcohol to dull down your capacity for common sense, and I am an introvert. Peace, quiet , solitude in the woods was my ideal birthday gift.
There were a few trails through the woods near us, directly from the cabin, and I felt that it would be safe enough since the woods weren't as dense on the walk I wanted to go on. I walked up to the trail (the head was indicated by an opening in the brush, directly next to the cabin) and took two steps down, and was immediately overcome with a sense of complete dread. I cannot remember if it was a noise that caused this, or a feeling, but I turned my ass right back. Instinct is real, people. And it works best in the wilderness because it's all you have to rely on.
I will never know, but perhaps in a parallel universe, I continued on and ignored that feeling of dread in place of wishing for some time alone---and in that universe, I am considered missing without a trace.
Edit: Now that I have finished the video, I am rather confident that this situation was a combination of oncoming hypothermia and a run in with an animal. But due to his hypothermic brain, or the suddenness of the perceived threat, he was not able to grab the belongings that could help towards his survival. Or, he felt by leaving it behind, the threat would go away after that---but instead, he was seen as a threat by the animal, not food, so it continued to pursue him. The only thing off about it is him being found up the mountain, since, wouldn't a predator try to chase a threat down the mountain, not up further? That's why I think it could've been a brief 'oh shit' moment, he did what he was supposed to (i.e keeping your eye carefully trained on the animal while pacing backwards), but then after the animal had left him alone finally, he found himself stuck in complete and utter darkness. Fearful to go back down the mountain due to the animal, he had no choice but to venture up further and hope for the best.
I live in the Sequim \ port Angeles area …. And I can tell you I’ve seen some scary supernatural stuff that I can’t explain from the Olympic Mountains …. Don’t go alone
I hiked to Martha Lake in Goddard Canyon. I was tired and sat against a big boulder. I took my day pack off. I then walked closer to the lake for more photos. I made a simple mistake of not putting my back pack on top of the boulder and then had to search for it. There were lots of boulders in the area. I had a GPS and was able to follow my trail back to the pack...otherwise I might never have found it! I was 9 miles from my base camp. I am a former Fresno County SAR member. We all make simple mistakes that could end up badly.
Having worked as a trail crew worker and SAR team member of the National Park Service, I’m only more shocked that more people don’t turn up missing, I could write a book on unbelievable questions I’ve been asked while maintaining trails. PS- many people come to National Parks with no intention of ever leaving.
I agree with that. People of all walks of life have gone missing in parks, some with notes & others with none. The family’s rarely admit to mental issues because they think it will impact the search or the taboo in there culture.
Suicide by hypothermia? Wow that would be a rough way to go. But I'm sure people go out there to die sometimes. Doesn't account for all the missing 411 type stuff.
You should write a book.
@Benjamin Breeg That doesn't make much sense. How would he know that he was going to get hypothermia?
I was an NPS ranger so I understand how naive people can be-but none of that seems relevant in this case except for the possibility of suicide, given that he was a local and experienced hiker who knew that area well and was on an easy trail.
I lived in Port Angeles and have spent lots of time out there in the woods.
A friend and I had a terrorizing incident on that trail, at night, in January of 2005. I’m convinced a Bigfoot was screaming at us.
Something crept up on us while walking back, and started screaming, grunting, breaking large branches. I thought we were gonna die. It eventually walked off slowly and we walked out. There was also fresh snow on the ground and we were the only ones out there due to lack of any other cars at the trailhead, or tracks.
Scary! Never experienced anything in my time on the Olympic Peninsula (lived in Sequim for 4 1/2 years), but I love hearing other people's experiences. I was fascinated to learn Ron Morehead (of the Sierra Sounds) also lived in Sequim.
I live in Port Angeles too. I've heard many stories of Bigfoot in this area.
I live right on the doorstep of the Olympics, its an amazing little corner of the country. It is its own self contained massive wilderness area. Its like a small nation in and of itself.
To leave your gear and go up higher in elevation near nightfall means to me something spooked him enough to immediately leave the area to get somewhere safer. Also, whatever it was kept him from going back to get his survival pack and chose to stay put and freeze to death.
I. Agree on that
I thought the same thing until a lady named Susan said she knew him, he had a bad leg and couldn't have climbed a thousand feet straight up. But how would he get there?
@@cjbanksful "Missing 411 - The UFO Connection"
A question brought up at MANY 411 non-conventional missing persons...
@@cjbanksfulif a person was scared enough.
Interesting story. I get baffled by the stories of people disappearing that were only 50-100 yards away from others in their family/group. I’m always carrying my sidearm when I’m out because you never know. Two legged creatures are the main threat. Love the channel, keep them coming.
Good idea, and of course it can also be used as an emergency signaling device, and can protect vs. the four-legged critters too..
Great advice. I was a soldier and slept in the bush for a living and the only creature to be wary of has two legs as you stated. If you can go in pairs or small group for security and ALWAYS have your weapon.
So as someone who hikes in ONP regularly the national park service does not like firearms in the park at all. They do not honor my Washington conceal carry and I have to open carry unloaded. So in my experience most people don’t carry in the park for that reason.
Never ever enter the woods unarmed. Nice to see like minded outdoorsmen on the channel. 😁
@@darrenfitzgerald8354 I wouldn't give a damn if my life depended on it! Drug runners have accosted people who run up on them with their rifles! What the park fools don't know doesn't matter.
I lived in Everett Wa for 6 years and did the Olympic penn forest hike’s many times. Lots of missing people up there. GORGEOUS TRAILS!
Take care while hiking Chris , you tell us unfortunate stories of people doing exactly what you do . Be safe & thank you , enjoy your channel 😀
I wonder if he ever gets scared
@@tilopslicer most normal people do ?
Honestly being a very experienced hiker doesn’t amount to much when you’re confronted with Mother Nature and the mystery of the wilderness.. where I come from it had nothing to do with big foot etc .. it was more of an understanding that you’re not the sum total of all knowledge.. respect the unknown.. the presence of a force we can’t comprehend at our limited level of consciousness..
@@zorazorazorzzora8333 I totally agree with that.
Those people were hikers first and foremost. Chris is a video creator. In this capacity, it's a VERY different situation. People need to seriously realize that NOTHING is ever what it appears to be.
- BTW Fear - will foster one of 2 things, leading to one of 3. 1)Courage. or 2)Cowardice. > 3)Wisdom + -.(or Lack of it) ~ Do not confuse Bravery with Courage.
There are lots of unknown weird things in the mountains.
Please be careful Chris.
Such a sad story. Something must have scared him and he panicked. He got himself into situation and was unable to relocate his gear.
When you have a man of that age, who's an experienced hiker, and knows that area
well, you have to believe he wanted to die. When you have a "single" older man, and
no family to live for, sometimes dark emotions can take over, and cause this to occur.
When you have a man of that age, who's an experienced hiker, and knows that area
well, you have to believe he wanted to die. When you have a "single" older man, and
no family to live for, sometimes dark emotions can take over, and cause this to occur.
Really love the mix of camping advice, food and interesting mysteries / stories. This is rapidly becoming one of my favourite you tube watches.
I don't know how he went missing. It's the easiest trail on the planet. Kids and elderly people walk on that trail. I've been there. It's only 2 miles long from the parking lot.
Sounds like a medical event and most likely hypothermia was involved. I have been in the Olympic Park remote backpacking and camping many miles in. I've also been a victim of hypothermia. Many people misunderstand hypothermia. It doesn't have to be below freezing to get hypothermia! My personal story involves capsizing my canoe in 50 degree weather in a remote wilderness area. Because the water temperature was much colder I started to develop hypothermia almost instantly after swimming to shore. Because of my experience and training I knew to get my wet clothes off and start a fire. Rule #1 is to always carry at least 5 ways to start a fire. With teeth chattering and extreme shivering I established a fire and was drying my clothes out. Within an hour or two I was feeling better again. Rule #2 is to always let someone know where you are going and when you should be back. Rule #3 is to remain in place. Don't move or attempt to walk out. It hinders searchers looking for you. Focus on maintaining a fire and staying dry and warm. I was found by a helicopter that spotted my fire less then 16 hours later. The important thing to know about hypothermia is that it sets in quickly, causing confusion and disorientation making the victim to do things that don't make sense. Sadly, I think that's what happened to James. He probably went in the hot spring and then began to cool off too quickly. Confusion and disorientation set in quickly due to hypothermia. Sadly he didn't know to start a fire or was so confused that he didn't. There's no doubt in my mind that hypothermia took his life. As far as Bigfoot and UFO'S, I'm here to tell you they are both very real and I've had many encounters in my 60 years of being on this planet.
Care to elaborate on your ufo and Bigfoot experiences?
Help me out .. trying to follow your reasoning
So you’re saying he was able to warm water to prepare his food, set his backpack and towel neatly against a tree while hypothermia was setting in ?
I don’t understand why since night fall was setting in why did he stop to prepare food, he lived nearby .
I think you covered all the bases there….
@@zorazorazorzzora8333 I was thinking that too. Maybe he just wanted to enjoy the trail a bit longer, he had his a food with him.
I don't know if Bigfoot exist, I've personally have never seen one. I believe it's more of a paranormal image because when this one man took a picture of one. He took his camera to a specialist and the footage flicker. That means it's not real but a paranormal image. I'm not here to tell anyone on what to believe in but, until I actually see one, or authorities actually catch one of these beings then I will change my mind. Till then I believe it's a paranormal image.
It was raining that day on the 22nd and the next day and every day after for weeks on end! 😂🤣I don't miss that about Washington. Wonderful story telling once again.❤
it sounds like a surprise caught him offguard and he ran, became disoriented in the dark and perished in the night. my heartfelt condolences to his family and just goes to show for how resilient we are as people our lives can be fragile too.
It's obvious that something scared him up the hill maybe something cryptid. God bless James 🙏 and his family
Hey Chris,
I have a theory on what happened to James. So, here in the States we don't have anywhere to go, I hate to say this, to commit suicide. But Japan does and it's the Aokigahara Forest. My theory is that he was preparing his last meal and just changed his mind. He walked far away from his site, climbed the ridge at a distance where he thought nobody would look, and he just fell asleep. He knew good and well it would've been his last sleep.
I do believe in the Paranormal and aliens doing weird stuff to people in our nation's national parks. But when I hear stories like this, it just seems like these people wanted to end their lives and did so in the most peaceful way possible. They loved hiking, knew the areas well, and neatly folded their clothing or stacked their belongings to indicate no foul play.
Most, if not all, loved ones are in denial when it comes to their family members or friends even considering suicide or showing signs. Most won't show any. James froze to death with a beautiful view.
I had told some of my sisters that if I ever got a terminal illness I would not do the medical/hospital stuff. I would go to a beautiful wilderness and camp and hike till SOMETHING got me. Hopefully not human. ❤
Thanks Chris. One could think James got scared. He was experienced hiker. Strange.
So as you note, it sounds like he was eating his meal, and "something" interrupted him. You say that it seems as if something scared him, and that is why he left his campsite, and while that may be true, there is another possibility as well. I wonder if he saw something that intrigued him, and decided to try and follow it? I will leave it to anyone reading this, who is familiar with the lore of the Pacific Northwest, what "intriguing" thing might entice someone to try and follow it.
I actually like watching you set up camp and then cooking. A proud Washingtonian.
I used to hunt in N. Eastern W.a State. Very remote and vast. Beautiful & spooky at the same time.
love me some of these spooky hiking stories
Thanks Chilling Tales!
Oh the lovely sound of rain at the beginning of your story. I wish we could have some. 😥🇬🇧
You failed to mention he had a bad leg which would definitely make a straight-up climb impossible. I knew this man. He knew where he was. That was his 'spot' off the trail. And he knew if you're lost to stay where tf you are so someone could find you.
Hi Susan , I grew up in Port Townsend and have been to these hot springs several times. Even before they made the trail so much longer due to washout. James looks very familiar to me. Is your gut feeling that it was foul play or something more 411-ish ?
I used to love , love camping , hiking , climbing , beach camping/walking out there , but I don’t go anymore . And I don’t ever expect to again . Too many experienced and responsible and sensible people going missing . I feel for his family and his friends . Not something you ever get over , especially without answers . Take care ! Lisa
Then Susan how do you explain how he got one thousand feet up unless it was fear which got the adrenaline going? When that happens you can accomplish a lot more than you can normally.
@@cjbanksful it can't be explained... but, his bum leg would not have allowed him to climb straight up. Use some sense.
@@lisacolbert5987 Jim was well known around town. You may have seen him. I don't go to rural sites anymore without company. Rule number 1- the buddy system...
There ARE unusual things that happen up here...
When you have a man of that age, who's an experienced hiker, and knows that area
well, you have to believe he wanted to die. When you have a "single" older man, and
no family to live for, sometimes dark emotions can take over, and cause this to occur.
I moved here in Elwha, just west of Port Angeles about 5 years ago. I grew up in central Pennsylvania, and had a few things happen there that made me question this whole topic. Now that I live 10 minutes from where this happened, I have no more questions. I was a zoo professional for decades and know my lions, bears, apes, canines, and crocodiles very well. What I hear in the middle of the night here,.........answers.
We have been here 20 years. Grew up in the 60s and 70s in the woods and swamps of Florida. We to have seen, heard, and smelled things here in Washington that are so much different than home in Florida. The woods are so much more dense. Even more than the swamps in Florida. The few times the woods here went silent, it was creepy. I backpacked by myself no problem back east. I don't here in Washington.
So much more interesting than any TV show. TOTALLY CHRIS. ALWAYS all your storytelling about very important people lost forever. Thx so much
The drinks you show the Beers and the root beers we have those in San Antonio Texas, so I’m gonna have all my camping stuff together in my living room the cold brews and popcorn😀
Sounds great!! Keep Hiking!
I realize its dangerous but i appreciate as a viewer when you tell the scary stories with the flashlight.
And then hike out in the dark.
It adds alot to the whole feel of it.
Thanks for all you do Chris.
There would be no reason for him to go straight uphill without him knowing that he would have to go back down to get to where his pack was. I feel he was threatened in some way and ran uphill to get away.
Thanks for another great mystery, Chris!
Not a Run Up type of hill. Boulder Creek is in a narrow and very steep canyon. Also, nothing up there to run from, likely disorientation.
Perhaps!! Folks n eeds educated befores they go hiking venturing s out in these wilds untamed forest & lands & rivers ECT. Foresures there no walk in the parks ! As these animals out there's needs toos fetch & catch there's meals ! There's little ones toos feeds in many cases !! Besides !! All's folks out in these parks ECT. Be alerts stays safe out there's !
There is a woman in comments named Susan that said he could not have walked up there. He had a bum leg that would prevent him from climbing up that. She said his stuff was found at "his spot" and that he never walked all the way down to the hot springs.
While day hiking with a woman in Mt Rainier NP, we had a similar experience. An inadequate and dying flashlight led to us missing the trail in the dark on the return trip. However, we ended up fine because it was May rather than December. We simply stayed where we were until the sun came up. Though we didn't get much sleep, when it was light it was easy to see where we had missed the trail on the way out. The only real difference between our predicament and James's was roughly 20 degrees warmer and longer days, shorter nights. We'll never know why James struggled up another 1000 feet. Who knows? Maybe he thought the struggle would help keep him warmer. It's anybody's guess, really.
That is Sasquatch country....wow such a sad story, Thank you.
Watching from South Africa and thoroughly enjoying your channel. It really brightens my day. Thank you and keep up the great work!
Thank you soo much!! KH!
@@basecampchris I just stumbled onto your channel. Great stuff. Have you heard of the Russian hunter , Sergey ? I believe thats spelled right. .. camping in Siberian wilderness and something came after him. Very scary stuff. All caught on camera
Thanks for the way you introduce this subject matter. I am a long time listener of your channel but I have never made any comments. What really shines is that you do not place an overwhelming emphasis on the paranormal or other David Paulides theories. I was a member or a Northern California SAR team, my job was rotary aviation. I have also hiked into Desolation Wilderness, PCT, Appalachian Trail and many more areas. I thought I heard that Mr. Griffin was a rock hound of sorts, and that he collected samples of different type of geology. I may have the wrong case, I was not present of this one, but wasnt it suspected that the reason he was so high up was that earlier in the day he discovered some interesting geology? Two week after this incident a friend of his who is a world renowned Geologist was inside an abandoned mine with his older son. They dislodged some overburden from a ore shoot and the Geologist son was buried from the rock fall of over burden. I was present there and I recall that this man was friends with your subject.
I believe that one must always traverse with a buddy. Going out on even a day hike alone is not advised, many content creators say they are along while making videos, but in reality they have someone with them off camera. I do not think you do, please be careful
David Paulides theories he would have a big problem with you calling his work his theories have you even read his books he has written 12 books and has been on coast to coast many , many times he has made it clear repeatedly he has no theories whatsoever. he has pounded that point home everytime he is asked. if you don't believe that listen to any of his hour long interviews on coast to coast with George norry.
Exactly what are David Paulides theories. He never says what he thinks, but he gives us the information, asks questions, and allows the listener or reader to ponder what’s happening.
@@willscheck8072You are correct.
Love your channel! I have hiked the Boulder Creek Trail several times. Camped at Boulder Creek and have been in the hot springs. It is a very easy trail to follow. I am really surprised that this would have happened to him there. He was very close to the trailhead. He must have been spooked by something.
Spent plenty of time in the Olympics. Have had plenty of times when something has been there that was not happy. What it was don't know. But still love it there.
Thanks chris great job great channel great content
Thanks James!
Chris I think you should only do daytime hikes in your video. I think that's safer. Thank you for these fantastic videos!!
I do this trail often, I am surprised this is my first time hearing about James. Thank you for covering this! The trail is now a 10+ mile hike in after the removal of the Elwha dam washed away the main entrance road. Very cool secluded hot springs now, I usually have the whole place to myself.
Very cool...looks like an awesome area plus the park!
Hi there ! Just try to be careful and if possible, bring a friend with you on the hikes. Why risk your life? Cheers!
I live in Nevada and listened to missing hiker videos all last winter on you tube. Always hiked with my dogs alone even though people thought I was crazy and now have such anxiety that I haven’t hiked unless Im with others. Here I am to listening to another story😂. Nevada is so remote it is easy to disappear without a trace. I just found your channel looking at your Pyramid lake video from 6 yrs ago. I visited that area few years ago by myself again …
and it was beautiful and eerie all at the same time.
Great videos thanks 😊
Hi Chris. I’m new to your channel. Just wanted to say I have really enjoyed catching up on all your videos! Great story teller! Thank you for the entertainment!
Thank you Cindy!!
Chris? Why dont you take someone with you on your hiking journey's? I'd feel more comfortable knowing you're protected at least. People say never hike alone, in case you encounter danger.
@@basecampchris I don't thinks Toxicology report on a month old body could possibly show a specific micotoxin. Because fungus invades every fiber of tissue on a rotting corpse. After even a few days above freezing - even if the environment was generally.cold.and maybe frozen. And Olympics have variable temps. It goes above freezing temps ten or.more days, every single month in winter. Unless you are very high in elevation. Because all the periphery of the park is a coastal zone with mild temperature. He could have accidentally eaten something that made him sick, maybe related to.fungus. Or it was suicide.
Happy you more day these days. I feel for his family and friends, definitely something happened because no one leaves their backpack anywhere.
Another story from Chris, even though it's another tragic one. My Sunday is now complete. Thank you!
@Melissa Paley if you don't mind me asking, why do they scare you?
@Melissa Paley it's truly a shame that you have to be afraid. I understand why, though. Time's are changing for the worst, and that's sad.
Always carry protection with you. And when you go hiking, go with friends. Stay safe.
@@MegaSusanc I don't believe she said they scare her. She only implied that this one was tragic. At a campfire years ago, way out west, some of the group wanted to hear scary stories. They asked me to tell one and all I said was l. i. f. e. With the way people act and treat each other in the day to day, it's absolutely frightening. I Thank The ALL MIGHTY everyday for being there for me, holding me up and making me strong. Now the only thing I fear is losing HIM, for HE is always with us❤
I've started watching your videos about a two weeks ago and just can't stop. I am now subscribed fellow Minnesotan. Keep up the good work
My older sister lives in Minnesota, way up near Hibbing. Been there several times and you can definitely hear the accent in Chris as he talks. Accents rarely 100% leave you.
I lived in Port Angeles, WA at the time. Most beautiful country I’ve ever lived in.
It was around the same time another hiker was gored to death by a mountain goat in the same general area.
That’s one of my favorite beers also the pale ale is really good 👍
Sad story but a great video Chris, thankyou. These missing 411 stories are a big mystery. The story of Stacy Arras from Yosemite is another crazy one.
I used to be on Search & Rescue. 90% of people who get lost go down hill, not uphill. Obviously in this case he was either looking for something or being chased up hill.
He had a foot injury and where he was found was across a creek and up a difficult climb to the ledge. I'm hearing different stories so I figured I'd look into it a bit more.
I've been backpacking, day hiking and camping in Olympic National Park since I was a child; your verbal description was spot on! In my opinion, it is an especially erie forest (in all the diiferent sections and different types of forests) yet all stunningly beautiful. I felt creeped out several times, even as a child. Rest in peace James Griffen.
Something scared the hell out of him! Not even a kid would leave their back pack behind! Players to him and his family and Godspeed to everyone!
❤
Im surprised that our national Parks don't have a gps tracking bracelet that they give to each hiker for a small fee.. and recover that bracelet when the hiker returns back to the check station.
Great idea❤
In the late '80s I worked with a nurse whose son had disappeared in those mountains. They found some of his belongings but they never found him
Hello Chris. Greetings from a tiny hamlet in deepest Dorset, England. Where did you buy the mug you have there.
Keep up the good work, loving every story you tell alongside the beautiful scenery. All the best now.
... I love the mug too 🙂
How's Miss Marple ?
Hi Ian. She’s alive and kicking in my world, as well as Agatha Christie! I wish I could go back to those times in England…not as a victim though 😵💫
Hey Ernie, I believe that is a mug for a Moscow mule cocktail.
I think I saw those mugs at a dollar store and at Walmart. They are called mule mugs for those mule drinks (alcoholic beverage) that came out in the last so many years. Moscow Mule drinks. I think.
It gets dark here at 450 PM on a clear sunny day in December. It was deffinatly pitch dark when he left that trail if he left the Hot springs at 430
I love these scary vido's...please be safe.it doesn't matter if you only do them in the day time,cause it might be safer for you.
Hey Chris, every week i patiently look forward to these type of videos.
This one sounds like one of the missing 411 stories. It can be very simple sometimes why a person vanishes as you mentioned. But this one sounded very eerie.
Except for...he didn't vanish. He was found.
I love your stories!
Thank you for the strange, don't make sense, stories. Enjoy your wonderful story telling gift. More of these, please.
1. Don't understand the uphill hike after the meal. Especially in darkness.
2. But I understand even less getting off the trail ... so close to his car, on his way out ... to cook a meal in dusk about 1/2 (?) mile from his car.
3) Getting lost in the darkness, off the trail ... I get that.
4) Great stories Chris!
Hi Chris can't wait to watch love your channel
Thanks Dianne!
@@basecampchris you are welcome and please stay safe too many people go missing in the woods just be careful we want to enjoy your videos for along time to come
Hi Chris I can't wait for more stories and your great cooking keep it up think I've seen most of your videos love them all ok keep hiking 🥰
Thanks so much
Love the way you tell a story, it's like I was sitting across from you, nice and calm, some channels talk so fast and you can tell there reading a script, very unjoyable
I recognized Hurricane Ridge and Sol Duc Falls in your opening photos. I love Olympic National Park and grew up spending lots of time there. Sol Duc Hot Springs is the best! So beautiful & peaceful. It's pretty darn "Sasquatchie" around these parts, so I wouldn't be surprised if this story had something to do with that... Something very strange went down for that poor man. I'm a true believer in Sasquatch and I've had my own experience with whatever bigfoot is. The Olympic Peninsula has a lot of Sasquatch activity. Though there are a lot of nonbelievers, it's one of those things you have to experience for yourself, then your whole world changes forever. All I can say, is that there is something out there. 🌲🌲🌲🏔🌲🌲🌲
Love your channel Chris
Chris I found your channel about a week about and have been watching it daily!
Does the camera give you a scene of security while in remote areas?
I don't know if I could go in those areas and talk about these stories lol! Keep it up brother! Stay safe!
it kinda does...i know you guys are out there somewhere! KH!
There are many, many stories of mysterious disappearances in the National Parks. Many have happened in broad daylight when people were not hiking or camping alone. Another great video! Stay safe dude!
Hypothermia can happen very quickly and doesn't just happen with very cold weather. I got the very early stages of it when I went for a trail run near my home here in southern California several years ago. It was was a nice winter day with the high around 60 partly cloudy and it started to sprinkle just a little bit and that was enough to cause me to get cold very quickly I began to get disoriented and confused but I got home and warmed up very quickly. I was lucky that I recognized the early signs and was close to home.
I hate that for him and his family. Thank you for the video. I hike quite often. Sometimes with my wife. Sometimes alone. Safety has to be the first concern. Anything can happen. Thanks again for your videos. I love them
Hey Chris love your channel by the way. Question does it ever make you a little nervous to tell these stories about experienced hikers that disappear when you are out there hiking on your own?
It does make me think about precautions that I should always be doing and not get complacent....
Love your videos Chris...you just seem to have a knack for these kind of stories. I would love to share mine with you and your viewers but I'm not sure where to send it. I'm old as dirt and not much of an Internet user. How do I get my story to you? God Bless.
I have an email address.... basecampchris2@gmail.com I could take a look...Thanks
@@basecampchris Thank you Chris...I will send it there. Just a note, I also lived in Port Angeles at the base of Mt Olympic. Only lived there for one year tho.....too much rain. I didn't realize that it was the only natural rain forest in the US until we had moved there. I quickly moved back to Sugar Pine just above Sonora CA. I sure love the Sierra Nevada Range...it's home to me. I'll get my story to you....thank you and God Bless.
This is youtube gold! I just stumbled across this channel. Great stuff
Hey !!!!! Yay another new story !!!!!! Thank you!!!! I already know it's gonna be awesome !!!!
Chris, I get to go camping this summer because of your videos. I never get any time off of work I love watching you camp it makes my day.
Thankyou for another great story! Love your channel! Keep it up! Love from Montverde, Florida
A very sad story, expertly narrated. Love your channel!
🇨🇦thanks Chris. A lot to consider here. How quickly we loose our direction. So sad
Thank you Chris✨
First thought he was surprised by something & ran then thought of the re sealed food & thought maybe he thought he heard some one calling out in distress or something & went looking & got lost . Very strange 👍 thumbs up thanks Chris stay safe & always carry a personal locator beacon & let people know where your going & when your due back as Dave paulides missing 411 always reminds us 🍻 cheers from the Northern Rivers NSW Australia 🇦🇺
In the Olympic rain forest in December it gets dark about 4:30
I'm so glad that I found your you tube channel. I look forward to your videos. Please be careful out there.
Thank you, I will
I live in the area and have been up to those springs a few times. I have heard that lithium collects naturally in those hot springs. Pretty sure a bad interaction with that could really play with your mind
We enjoy all your stories. You are cheerful, yet plant that seed of adventure and intrigue. Thank you for such good clean content.
This story reminds of the story of Aaron Hedges who was missing in Montana/crazy horse mountains. They found his backpack neatly displayed
Interesting video, love the way you tell the story, that around the camp fire feel. Just subscribed. Respect from the UK
Thanks and welcome
Hey Chris. My guy and I recently discovered your channel. We love it! We also love the beer. Just bought some Voodoo Ranger today. Take care on the trails.
hey chris been following you from the start and love your vids, could you do a hike/camp video soon as they are my favorite thanks heaps mate jason from down under,
Honestly Olympic National Park once you get passed Port Angeles as a local I can confirm to many people go missing national park related or not the back county is truly we're you always have to be on your toes
I lived in PA til 20013. That is a very easy hike, and the hot springs are very popular. This case has bothered me terribly. What you didn't mention is that James was disabled, an injury. For him to suddenly go 1,000 feet up would have been just something he couldn't have done. And whatever happened was very fast. This is not normal, but not altogether unheard of in that national forest. Terribly sad.
This is perfect as I load my pack for a hike from Dosewalips to Lake Quinault to Cushman.
Thanks for sharing
I watch a lot of these type videos that some are being retold by different you tubers. I may have already heard this story but You do it better. I wanna know the beer your drinking and am I the only weirdo that likes the sound of crunching earth underneath someones feet that the mic picks up while walking? LoL keep up the good work and the places you hike are amazing!
Thanks for the video
Good evening Chris! I like your videos.
Hi Chris,
I love all your stories. I watch all your videos. Happy Sunday!
Be safe. Much love.
Thank you Chris, for another informative video, in a beautiful location.
Hey Chris love your video's please keep them coming !I think something crazy went on and he was spooked,sounds like he was experienced so ..
Watching from the Philippines! Love you Chris!
Thanks Tram!
Hey Chris it's good to see you today God bless you and hope you have a great week ahead loved the video thanks again 💯🙏😀
This story is so sad and so many families don't know what happened to their loved ones. So many people go missing here in the PNW, for novice and experienced, tell someone where your going, when your going to be back, have the main 10 Hiking essentials, if possible hike with a buddy, make sure to have warm clothes (few ways to start a fire) watch the weather, plan your hike, have a route kinda planned leave a map with someone, the list goes on. Our SARs teams are Amazing, and some people put a lot of people at risk if something happens. It's beautiful to hike and dangerous all at once. Be prepared and you may have to help someone else out. Safe Hiking Everyone. Chris stay safe and enjoy those trail's enjoy your Adventures waiting for the next one.
Chris love your story telling. I hope you carry a PLB and emergency items like bear spray when you are doing exactly what the people that go missing are doing. Becareful and stay safe. Looking forward to your next video hike. Thanks for sharing.
Do you really think he goes out unprepared? 🤦🏿♀
@@reddoor4167 Karen
@@lauriehughes8130 🖕🏿Have a nice day! 😅
I can only suppose. He got scared by noises. Freaked out and got lost. Fear does crazy stuff to ones mind. That is just one possible answer since they didn't find animal tracks near his camp
Fear can mess you up, I know from experience. It is also true that tracks in this environment are rare.
There's something very soothing about his voice works very well well particularly at night.