Unsolved Mysteries: Disappearances in the Wilderness

Every year, over half a million people disappear in the United States. While some of these disappearances are intentional, others result from accidents, crimes, or deaths in locations where bodies are never found. Sadly, some missing person cases remain unsolved for years, causing immense pain and long-lasting effects for family and friends who are left without closure. In this article, we will take a closer look at some unexplained disappearances featured in David Paulides' "Missing 411" books, all of which are connected to national parks. As we explore these cases, we are left to wonder if something more supernatural could be responsible when all other possibilities have been ruled out.

The Disappearance of Mike Heron

The Great Smoky Mountains is a stunning mountain range spanning the border of North Carolina and Tennessee. It is home to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which covers approximately 520,000 acres. The park, with its hundreds of miles of trails and excellent camping opportunities, attracts many hikers and explorers each year. Despite its popularity, 51-year-old Mike Heron went missing in 2008 without a trace.

Mike, a local construction business owner, frequently visited his family's 100-acre farm in Happy Valley near the park. On August 23, 2008, he borrowed a lawn mower and trailer to mow tall grass on a neighboring property. Neighbors saw Mike arriving at the farm and later leaving on an ATV, heading towards the nearby woods. When Mike did not return home, his family grew concerned and searched for him.

They found his truck, keys, ID, cash, and cell phone at the farm, but no sign of Mike. The Bland County Sheriff’s Office conducted an extensive search, hindered by poor weather, covering a 500-acre area. On August 26, Mike’s abandoned ATV was found in a peculiar state, parked on a steep hill with the ignition still active. Despite a thorough search, no further clues were found. Mike’s disappearance remains a mystery, with speculation ranging from an accident to foul play.

Garrett Bardsley's Vanishing

In August 2004, 12-year-old Garrett Bardsley and his father Kevin were camping with their Boy Scout troop at Cuberant Lake in the Uinta Mountains of Utah. Garrett went back to camp to change his soaked clothes while his father continued fishing. Kevin saw Garrett heading back to camp, but after 20 minutes, Garrett had not returned. Despite an immediate search by the troop, Garrett was nowhere to be found.

A Nike ankle sock, possibly Garrett’s, was discovered half a mile from where he was last seen. The rough terrain, near-zero temperatures, and heavy rain made the search difficult. Law enforcement believed Garrett may have become lost and succumbed to the harsh conditions, but no evidence or body has ever been found. Garrett’s parents continue to search for him, appearing on media platforms to raise awareness. His disappearance remains unexplained.

The Mysterious Death of Bart Scher

Bart Scher, an experienced outdoorsman and wildlife researcher, vanished in September 2004 during a trip to the Canadian wilderness. Dropped off at Reed Lakes in Canada’s Yukon Territory, Bart was expected to be picked up two weeks later. When the plane returned, Bart was gone.

The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) conducted a search but found only remnants of a meal and Bart’s boat. Bart’s friend, Dib Williams, found Bart’s essential equipment and some remains, including a skull fragment and small bones, suggesting he had been attacked by a bear. However, the lack of signs of a struggle or disturbed vegetation raises doubts. Bart’s mysterious death remains unsolved, with theories ranging from an animal attack to foul play.

The Disappearance of Sammy Boi

Eight-year-old Sammy Boi vanished on October 14, 2006, while playing hide-and-seek with his father near Cleetwood Cove at Crater Lake National Park in Oregon. Sammy, known for his hiding skills, disappeared over a hill and was never seen again. Despite an extensive search using tracker dogs, helicopters, and heat-sensing cameras, no trace of Sammy was found.

Theories include Sammy digging himself into a hiding place or wandering off and getting lost. However, the lack of evidence, such as bones or clothing, makes it difficult to explain his disappearance. As of 2024, Sammy’s family still hopes for answers.

The Case of Carl Landers

In May 1999, 69-year-old Carl Landers, an experienced hiker and climber, set out to conquer Mount Shasta in California. Feeling unwell, Carl left his camp early, expecting his friends to catch up later. However, when his friends failed to find him, a search was launched.

Despite clear weather and a well-used path, no sign of Carl was found. A possible sighting by a forest ranger remains uncertain. Carl’s disappearance is similar to another climber who went missing on Mount Shasta in 1965, adding to the mountain’s mysterious reputation. Some speculate about alien abductions or hidden cities beneath the peaks, but Carl’s fate remains unknown.

These cases highlight the mysterious and often dangerous nature of wilderness exploration. While some disappearances may have logical explanations, others leave us questioning the possibility of supernatural forces at play. The search for answers continues as families and communities seek closure for their missing loved ones.