In this episode of Crux True Survival Stories, hosts Kaycee McIntosh and Julie Henningsen dive into the gripping tale of Robert Schock, a 39-year-old drifter who vanished during a day run in the North Cascades with his dog. Schock defied the odds, surviving nearly a month in the wild with no shoes and minimal supplies before being miraculously found by trail crew members.

The episode explores the treacherous terrain of the North Cascades, known for its high disappearance rates, and examines the psychological and physical toll survival takes in such hostile environments. Other chilling stories of lost hikers, like Rachel Lakoduck and Samantha Sayers, are also discussed, highlighting the unforgiving and unpredictable nature of the wilderness. The hosts emphasize the vital importance of preparation, proper equipment, and awareness for anyone venturing into remote areas.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:23 The Story of Robert Schock

01:11 Miraculous Rescue and Survival

02:24 The Treacherous Terrain of the North Cascades

03:13 The Dangerous Beauty of the North Cascades

05:40 Robert Schock’s Fateful Journey

08:17 Lost and Battling for Survival

14:00 The Search and Final Moments

18:40 A Mother's Reflection

18:52 The Trail Crew’s Heroic Effort

19:32 Survival Strategies and Key Lessons

20:29 Rescue and Recovery

22:50 Robert’s Future and Reflections

24:03 The Dark Reality of Wilderness Disappearances

27:33 The Case of Rachel Lackaduck

30:52 The Search for Samantha Sayers

35:14 Key Lessons from the Wilderness

36:11 Essential Survival Gear and Preparation

38:37 Closing and Listener Engagement

References:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/North_Cascades_National_Park

https://worldpopulationreview.com/state-rankings/missing-persons-by-state#google_vignette

https://www.cascadiadaily.com/2024/sep/19/a-month-lost-in-the-north-cascades-without-food-or-shelter-hiker-details-improbable-rescue/

https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/hikes/chilliwack-river

https://www.nationalparkstraveler.org/2021/02/deadliest-national-park-would-you-believe-north-cascades-national-park

https://www.seattletimes.com/life/outdoors/how-the-body-of-missing-hiker-rachel-lakoduk-was-found-in-the-north-cascades-almost-two-years-after-she-disappeared/

https://nypost.com/2020/07/04/why-hundreds-of-people-vanish-into-the-american-wilderness/

https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/national-park-highest-death-rate-country-rcna68317

Email us! thecruxsurvival@gmail.com

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/thecruxpodcast/

Get schooled by Julie in outdoor wilderness medicine! https://www.headwatersfieldmedicine.com/