Real Life People Make All the Decisions Horror Movie People Would

This adventurous TikTok duo stumbled upon a cave close to their quaint cabin during their Colorado camping escapade. Although suspecting it might be a bear’s den initially, they daringly venture inside. It seems they haven’t had a rendezvous with “As Above So Below,” or else they’d probably know better.

Upon entering, they quickly deduce that what they’ve discovered is an old mine, yet they choose to delve deeper despite encountering a bat and signs of a past collapse. Apparently, “The Cave” didn’t make it to their watch list, or they’d rethink their decision. As they navigate through the eerie tunnels, unsettling sounds reach their ears. It’s obvious “The Descent” wasn’t a feature in their horror movie marathon; otherwise, they’d be wary of the ominous echoes in the depths. Unbeknownst to them, real-life mine shafts pose grave dangers, often housing toxic gases or scant oxygen, not to mention their proneness to crumbling down. Eventually, mysterious shapes and sounds in the shadows send them sprinting back to daylight. It seems the reckless characters making dreadful decisions in horror films are not just fictional after all. Clearly, “The Barbarian” was another missed lesson on their horror curriculum, which might have forewarned them about the eerie encounters lurking in the gloom.

To say the least, Flaviu Cernescu has interesting tastes in romantic campsites. The thrill seeking urban explorer and his girlfriend pitched a tent in the dark and spent the night on top of a 833ft tall chimney. Don’t have a lock on the location but I’m going to hazard a guess that it is not America.

Could you convince your SO to join you for a little camping trip like this?

Judging by his instagram account, he and his lady go everywhere together:      

RELATED: Yellowstone Backpackers Wisely Evacuate Campsite After Surrounded By Bison

WHAT IS ACROPHOBIA:

Fear of heights, also known as acrophobia, is a prevalent and often debilitating phobia that affects countless individuals worldwide. This irrational dread of elevated places transcends mere nervousness; it can manifest as a paralyzing terror, even in situations where the height is not immediately life-threatening.

The fear of heights typically stems from a combination of psychological and evolutionary factors. Our ancestors who were cautious around heights were more likely to survive, as falling from great heights could result in severe injuries or death. This survival instinct still resides within our subconscious, triggering anxiety when we find ourselves in high places.

Symptoms of acrophobia vary in intensity, from mild unease to full-blown panic attacks. Vertigo, rapid heartbeat, trembling, and nausea are common physical manifestations of this fear. It can profoundly restrict one’s daily life, preventing them from enjoying breathtaking views or pursuing activities like hiking or rock climbing.

Overcoming acrophobia often requires gradual exposure therapy, where individuals confront their fear in controlled environments with the guidance of a therapist. Cognitive-behavioral techniques can also help reframe negative thought patterns associated with heights.

Fear of heights may be daunting, but with appropriate treatment and support, many individuals can learn to manage their anxiety and regain the freedom to explore elevated spaces without overwhelming fear.

It’s a bit of a bizarre sight, and can certainly be a bit unsettling, but these people aren’t worried about men of the woods climbing under their cars to steal catalytic converters. Instead, they’re trying to keep mischievous critters, like porcupine and marmots, from chewing on the wires, fuel lines, and brake lines underneath their vehicles.

If you dig around a bit on google, you’ll find plenty of forums where people are saying that it’s not an uncommon thing to do. One Redditor, u/hiacbanks, inquired about this subject several years ago after seeing a blog post on the subject.

The comments, though, again, aren’t official in any way, agree with the importance. Redditor u/sparrowxc claims that some trail heads in Canada will actually provide chicken wire at the entrance. The question was also asked over on Mountain Project over eight years ago, with commenters responding in a multitude of different ways.

“There is a huge problem of marmots chewing on cars coolant hoses in the Mineral King area of Sequoia National Park. My favorite story is the one where a guy drove from Mineral King to LA and then found a marmot still alive under his hood. That’d be a 5 hr drive/300+ miles ! Note: it’s only a problem in early summer. May & June. By July they move to higher ground and stop chewing.” – Chad Namolik on Mountain Project

NPS Says No Chicken Wire

Unfortunately for the chicken wire advocates, many marmots have learned how to get through or around the wiring, so it’s no longer an advised technique. Who, you may ask, is my source on this? Why, the National Park Service, of course. Instead, in major marmot territory, the NPS recommends driving over a tarp and wrapping it around your entire vehicle. This will protect both your property and the animals.

Additionally, the NPS recommends cleaning your car before heading into marmot territory, checking for possible damage when returning to your vehicle, looking under the hood for marmot activity, turning the key to just on before fully starting the engine to ensure all of the warning lights come on, and listening for unusual sounds while starting the engine.

Related: Mischievous Marmots Use Exhausted Hiker As Salt Lick

Image Credit: Nic via Instagram

It’s never a good idea to be drunk while on the trail. Whether you’re just day hiking or overnight backpacking, becoming intoxicated while moving in the wilderness is a recipe for a serious disaster. That said, if you’re 21 or older, if you can drink responsibly, and if it is legal wherever you are (check local laws, campsite rules, park rules, etc.) enjoying a nice alcoholic beverage at a mid-hike picnic or right before you head to bed in your a rather uncomfortable tent can be exactly what you need.

Alcohol weighs a fair amount, though, so you have to think before you pack. Will this be worth the weight? Will it taste good when we actually reach our destination? How will the temperature affect this drink? These are all questions worth asking before shoving your favorite brew in your pack.

To make planning easier for your next hiking or backpacking trip, we’ve compiled a list of alcoholic beverages that are worth lugging over several miles in your backpack.

Beer

Beer is a tough one. It can be a great campfire beverage, but warm beer can be vile. In fact, beer companies may advertise that their drink is best served ice cold because it’s so nasty (cold temperatures limit our taste buds’ ability to… well… taste). So, if you’re going to bring beer on a hike, either make sure it stays cold, or make sure it’s one that actually tastes good. Local breweries is a great place to look for something that fits this category. But, for the sake of national availability, we’re going to shout out Sierra Nevada.

First of all, Sierra Nevada makes some very high quality brews. Their original Pale Ale, first brewed in 1980, is a classic tasty beverage, but their other beers stand out as well. Their Hazy Little Thing is easily one of my favorite IPAs available nearly everywhere I go and the Wild Little Thing slightly sour ale is super tasty. They’re also family owned and committed to sustainability, hosting the largest solar array in craft beer and growing their own certified organic ingredients.

If, however, you’re just looking to keep your favorite beer as cold as possible, check out the Hydroflask Insulated Growler.

Revelshine Wine

I am, in no way, a wine snob. You can give me any four dollar bottle of “wine flavored beverage” and I’ll probably find a way to enjoy it. That said, canned wine does tend to be pretty… lame. It often taste pretty off and, perhaps worst of all, it’s even more difficult to reseal than a normal bottle of wine. You can’t really pack a full glass bottle on a hike, though. They’re heavy and very bulky, taking up way too much space and weight. But that doesn’t mean you can’t have good wine on a hike, especially if you turn to Revelshine.

Revelshine offers several very tasty wine options (Red, White, and Rosé) in an awesome, resealable aluminum bottle. Why an aluminum bottle? Partially because 70% of wine’s carbon footprint comes just from the glass bottle. Switching to a 100% recyclable aluminum bottle significantly reduces that carbon footprint. But it also makes for a lightweight and convenient bottle that can easily be tucked away in a backpack, keeps the drink cooler for longer, and can easily be resealed with its twist-off cap.

If that’s not enough, maybe the fact that the legendary Chris Davenport is one of the company’s cofounders will convince you!

Tincup Whiskey

Whiskey is fantastic, and if you know anything about our choices, you know we tend to swing towards Tincup. Founded by Jess Graber, who started distilling whisky in 1972, the company is named after Tin Cup, Colorado. Tincup also partners with some pretty solid Colorado organizations, like the American Institute for Avalanche Research, the National Ski Patrol, and the Vail Valley Foundation.

I’m not whisky connoisseur, but I can say that Tincup is a darn fine tasting whisky. Additionally, each and every bottle comes with a small tin cup on the top, so you don’t even need to bring a glass to enjoy this beverage. Glass, of course, can be an issue while hiking, and it can get pretty heavy. There’s no need to stress, though, as Tincup is releasing their aluminum Adventure Pack.

The 375ml double-walled, stainless steel canteen comes filled with their original whiskey. The design keeps things colder, lighter, and easier to pack, making this container perfect to transport and end-of-hike drink. It’s reusable and near unbreakable, too, so it’ll last for plenty of fantastic trips.

Peppermint Schnapps

This, right here, is my personal favorite pre-tent sleeping beverage. If you’re looking for a specific schnapps to head towards, and you’re in Colorado, I highly recommend Telluride Distilling Company’s Chairlift Warmer. Available in 750ml swing top bottles or 250ml adventure sized bottles, this 100 proof liqueur will warm your insides like very little else, and you’ll be shopping small business, which is always recommended.

Unfortunately, Telluride Distilling Company is only distributed throughout Colorado, so, if you’re in another state, you’re more or less on your own to find the right one (Rumple Minze is always there, if you need it). Just a small taste of a good 100 proof peppermint schnapps will go a long, long way, so just a small flask full of the stuff can last for a several day trip.

Best part? The peppermint flavoring will freshen your breath, reducing the stinky smells found on a hiking trip a little. It’s absolutely not a replacement for regular and healthy flossing/brushing habits, please don’t do that. Please.

Related: Top 5 Colorado Based Outdoor Products

Featured Image Credit: Revelshine via Instagram

What better way to navigate the roadways of America in anonymity than to live out one of those giant white vans synonymous with delivery giant FedEx. Meet Jonathan Norris, Army veteran and road warrior who converted a FedEx truck into a stealth home on wheels. Jonathan is now rolling around the United States in this manual transmission step truck and we couldn’t be happier for him. From the outside the van looks like beat up work a day vehicle but once he pulls back the sliding door, an incredibly thoughtful and comfy living space is revealed.  Take the tour of his rig and glean inspiration for your own van life project…this dude thought of everything:

RELATED: Contractor Converts 8.5 x 20ft Cargo Trailer Into Stealth Tiny Home

Amazon has a smoking deal on this huge Coleman tent that sleeps up to eight people. It’s too big to bring backpacking into the backcountry but if you’re looking for a family tent for car camping or just a party tent to set up on a campsite compound this thing is a beaut. Right now you can pick up this Colman tent at a big discount.

Coleman Montana Camping Tent, 6/8 Person Family Tent with Included Rainfly, Carry Bag, and Spacious Interior, Fits Multiple Queen Airbeds and Sets Up in 15 Minutes

Enjoy easy access in and out without having to zip and unzip a door thanks to the hinged door feature of the Coleman 8-Person Montana Cabin Camping Tent. Downpour in the forecast? Enjoy superior weather protection thanks to an included rainfly, welded corners, and inverted seams to keep water from getting in.

 As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

My goodness, what a beauty. Guarantee if you were in were in a parking lot full of the latest overland adventure vehicles tricked out with all the 21st century doodads and gizmos, you gravitate towards this timeless metallic brown 1978 Toyota 4×4 Chinook. Read the description, check out the video, MORE HERE:

A true marvel of classic Toyota imagineering. The Toyota Chinook was designed by Toyota and production began in 1973 and ended in 1978. The contract between Toyota and Chinook was for 15,000 units, once all were built, it was the end of an era. They were only built in a 2WD configuration from the factory, on the Toyota Hilux / Pickup Platform. This is a brilliant and one of a kind 1978 Toyota 4×4 Chinook. Completely rebuilt, inside, and out, frame off, engine, interior in 1991 by a fellow Toyota Chinook fanatic, mastermind, and enthusiast here in Oregon.

RELATED: The Toyota Tacoma – A Skier’s Best Friend

The 1978 Toyota 4×4 Chinook is an iconic vehicle that represents the adventurous spirit of its time. This compact and rugged camper was a popular choice for outdoor enthusiasts and travelers alike. The Chinook was built on the reliable Toyota Hilux platform, making it a durable and capable off-road vehicle.

One of the standout features of the 1978 Toyota 4×4 Chinook was its innovative camper conversion. The roof popped up to reveal a cozy sleeping area, complete with a bed and storage compartments. This smart design allowed for better aerodynamics while driving and provided a comfortable space to rest during camping trips. Inside, the Chinook boasted a small kitchenette with a stove, sink, and refrigerator, offering a touch of home in the wilderness.

The 1978 Toyota 4×4 Chinook captured the essence of the ’70s camping culture, and its popularity has endured over the years among vintage vehicle enthusiasts and collectors. Its robust construction, combined with the reliability of Toyota’s engineering, made it a sought-after classic.

Owning a 1978 Toyota 4×4 Chinook today is a symbol of nostalgia and a connection to a simpler, more adventurous era. Whether it’s for weekend getaways or long road trips, this iconic camper continues to hold a special place in the hearts of those who appreciate its blend of practicality and charm.

Nearly ten days after the discovery of three deceased individuals close to a secluded campground in Gunnison County, Colorado, some answers are starting to emerge.

On July 16, a hiker in the vicinity of Fossil Ridge Wilderness Study Area stumbled upon three bodies at Gold Creek Campground. Due to severe decomposition, the police struggled to identify the victims and determine the cause of their deaths.

After an extensive investigation, the bodies have now been identified, but the mystery surrounding their demise persists. Gunnison County Coroner, Michael Barnes, revealed that two of the victims were sisters, Rebecca Vance (42) and Christine Vance (43). The third victim was Rebecca’s 14-year-old son, whose name has not been disclosed due to his status as a minor. All three individuals hailed from Colorado Springs.

Interestingly, none of these individuals appeared on the Colorado Bureau of Investigation’s list of missing persons. Authorities are currently attempting to contact the boy’s father and paternal grandmother but have not yet located them.

Though an official cause of death is yet to be declared, Barnes speculated that the trio may have started camping in the remote area as early as July 2022 and succumbed to malnutrition and exposure as the seasons changed and temperatures dropped. Initially, the state of decomposition led investigators to believe that the deaths occurred in the fall.

The hiker who made the grim discovery found two of the bodies inside a zipped-up tent, while the third was outside the tent. The camp itself was quite rudimentary, consisting of only a small tent and a makeshift lean-to. It was situated approximately 1,000 feet away from an established campsite, and no vehicle was reported at the scene, despite the campground being nearly 7 miles from the nearest town of Ohio City.

As the investigation continues, GearJunkie will provide further updates on this story, including the official cause of death and any additional information surrounding this peculiar incident.

Horoscopes, like celestial maps, offer a profound insight into the intricate connection between the zodiac signs and the vast expanse of the great outdoors. Just as the planets align, so do the energies of each sign converge with the natural world, creating a tapestry of unique connections and possibilities.

Horoscopes, like celestial maps, offer a profound insight into the intricate connection between the zodiac signs and the vast expanse of the great outdoors. Just as the planets align, so do the energies of each sign converge with the natural world, creating a tapestry of unique connections and possibilities. Here is your Unofficial astrological predictions for summer 2023.

Zodiac Sign’s Horoscope for Outdoor Exploration

Aries (March 21 – April 19): As an Aries, your natural enthusiasm and pioneering spirit make you a true adventurer in the great outdoors. This season, embrace the thrill of exploring uncharted territories and conquering new heights. Your fiery energy will propel you forward, igniting a passion for outdoor activities. Remember to channel your assertiveness into leadership and inspire others to join you on your exhilarating journeys.

Taurus (April 20 – May 20): Taurus, your deep connection with the Earth makes outdoor activities a natural extension of your being. This season, find solace in the simplicity of nature and indulge in activities that engage your senses. Take time to savor the beauty that surrounds you and revel in the peace and serenity it brings. Whether it’s hiking, gardening, or simply sitting beneath a towering tree, allow nature to nourish your soul.

Gemini (May 21 – June 20): Gemini, your curious and versatile nature finds its perfect match in outdoor exploration. This season, embrace the opportunity to engage your mind and body simultaneously through various outdoor pursuits. Seek out activities that stimulate your intellect and allow you to connect with others. From group hikes to team sports, your outdoor adventures will not only be physically invigorating but mentally stimulating as well.

Cancer (June 21 – July 22): Cancer, your sensitive and nurturing soul thrives in the nurturing embrace of the natural world. This season, find comfort in the tranquility of outdoor spaces. Whether it’s a peaceful walk along a secluded beach or a cozy camping trip, allow nature to heal and rejuvenate your spirit. Embrace activities that foster emotional connections, such as outdoor picnics with loved ones or volunteering for environmental causes close to your heart.

Leo (July 23 – August 22): Leo, your vibrant and charismatic energy shines brightly in the great outdoors. This season, let your natural leadership skills take center stage as you engage in thrilling outdoor activities. Organize group adventures, lead hiking expeditions, or participate in outdoor events that allow you to showcase your talents. Remember to embrace the collaborative spirit and share the spotlight with fellow outdoor enthusiasts.

Virgo (August 23 – September 22): Virgo, your meticulous attention to detail and love for organization make you a natural fit for outdoor activities that require planning and preparation. This season, focus on honing your skills and perfecting your techniques. Engage in activities that allow you to refine your craft, such as gardening, birdwatching, or photography. Your keen eye for detail will bring forth a deep appreciation for the intricacies of the natural world.

Libra (September 23 – October 22): Libra, your innate sense of balance and harmony finds its expression in the great outdoors. This season, seek out activities that promote a sense of equilibrium within yourself and your surroundings. Engage in outdoor yoga, meditation, or tai chi to find inner peace amidst nature’s symphony. Connect with others through outdoor gatherings, fostering a sense of unity and cooperation.

Scorpio (October 23 – November 21): Scorpio, your intense and transformative nature finds its match in the vastness of the outdoor realm. This season, dive deep into outdoor activities that allow you to explore the depths of your emotions and test your limits. Engage in adventurous endeavors like rock climbing, kayaking, or backpacking. Embrace the transformative power of nature as it mirrors your own ability to grow and evolve.

Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21): Sagittarius, your boundless curiosity and love for exploration make you a natural-born outdoor enthusiast. This season, follow your wanderlust and embark on epic journeys to far-flung destinations. Engage in activities that broaden your horizons, such as trekking, horseback riding, or exploring new trails. Embrace the freedom and expansiveness of the great outdoors as it fuels your adventurous spirit.

Capricorn (December 22 – January 19): Capricorn, your disciplined and goal-oriented nature finds its outlet in outdoor activities that allow you to challenge yourself and achieve new heights. This season, set ambitious goals for your outdoor pursuits and work diligently to reach them. Engage in activities that require perseverance and determination, such as mountaineering, skiing, or endurance races. Your steadfast commitment will bring you a profound sense of accomplishment.

Aquarius (January 20 – February 18): Aquarius, your innovative and unconventional spirit thrives in the boundless possibilities of the great outdoors. This season, think outside the box and engage in activities that push the boundaries of traditional outdoor pursuits. Experiment with new sports, participate in environmental activism, or explore alternative ways to connect with nature. Embrace your unique perspective and let it guide you to extraordinary outdoor experiences.

Pisces (February 19 – March 20): Pisces, your intuitive and imaginative nature finds solace and inspiration in the natural world. This season, embrace outdoor activities that allow you to connect with your spirituality and tap into your artistic expression. Engage in activities such as painting landscapes, nature walks, or stargazing. Allow yourself to be enveloped by the mystical beauty of nature and let it fuel your creative spirit.

You know that uncomfortable moment when you have to ring a doorbell or just walk up to someone and hope you’re in the right spot? “Google maps said this is the right house, but there’s no street number, and these houses are scary close together…” The dreaded “sorry, I’ve got the wrong door!” or “sorry, I thought you were someone else” conversation is one many fear, but it could soon be a thing of the past.

What3words

Rather than sending an address to someone, send three random words that seem to mean absolutely nothing! What3words is changing the way that we mark locations, splitting the world up into 57-trillion 3-meter squares with an individual three-word address connected to each and every square. A portion of the peak of Mount Evans in Colorado, for example, is identified as seriously.navigation.point, and the base of the Pallavicini Lift at Arapahoe Basin Ski Area is at tooth.laughed.digested.

So, instead of providing an address that may or may not be wrong when inviting a friend over, send them the exact 10’x10′ square that your front door is located in. Rather than telling your friend to meet you at the park bench by the big tree near on the south side of the building, send them the exact 10’x’10’ square that the bench is located in. Rather than attempting to rattle off a bunch of numbers to rescue services to communicate your coordinates, just shout three words that mark your exact location.

The phone app is completely free for download, and you can easily send a square to friends over text. They will need the app to locate the address, as most map services don’t currently recognize the three words, but, again, it’s free!

Rescue Services

The best use for this technology, in our mind, comes with rescue services. Right now, what3words allows rescue organizations to use the tech for free, including in a new partnership with California State Parks. According to NBC Los Angeles, both organizations have worked together for nine months to incorporate the technology, including training phone operators and officers on what to do if someone calls and shouts three random words.

“Every year we end up getting calls from visitors that are lost on a trail somewhere, the sun is setting, and they’re not properly equipped with cold weather clothing.” – Assistant deputy director of park operations Adrien Contreras

One of the best features about the phone app is its ability to work offline. If you have zero cell service and no internet, the technology will still be able to locate you with a satellite connection. As long as you have a view of the sky and aren’t underground, you’ll most likely be able to find your three word address. That, paired with most modern phones’ ability to call the police despite a lack of cell connection, could make rescues a whole load easier.

Obviously the California State Park system isn’t the only organization in this country that fields calls for help. Hopefully we see more and more states adopt training related to this tech, and hopefully people become more and more aware of its potential. Honestly, I’d like to see it make the list for necessary outdoor gear, and I’d love to see GPS devices pick up the words.

Related: Denver Area Firefighters Use Jaws Of Life To Rescue Deer Stuck In Fence, Lost New York Hikers Found With Drone Equipped With Thermal Imaging Camera

Image Credit: what3words via Facebook