I totally agree with what you say about trusting your gut. Better to not take any chances if someone is giving off that creepy vibe. Your story made me feel freaked out. I can just picture you thinking the rustling is an animal, and then seeing the guy hiding in the tree. I always feel silly about carrying pepper spray because I meet so many nice people while hiking, but I'd rather have it in case I need it. Also, if you carry a knife or pepper spray - having it in the holster or right in your pocket is a good idea. It won't do you any good if you have to root around a hiking pack to get it out.
@WALTERZOLNA
7 ай бұрын
In a way I feel bad about even posting this because I love hiking and getting outdoors so much and I don't want to discourage anyone from doing the same. And yes I find that most of the time I find the truly nicest and respectful people out on the trails, but in today's day and age you just have to some awarness of the people around you and as I wanted to emphasis, just trust your instincts...
@mountainsintomemories
7 ай бұрын
That’s a wild story, and definitely creepy. I don’t want to be around people like that. In today’s world you just have to be careful, alert, and prepared. Thanks for sharing, I hope this helps someone.
@WALTERZOLNA
7 ай бұрын
People are people no matter where you are. Most are good, a few are up to no good... I'm afraid this video may be discouraging people from hiking which wasn't my intention, although I can see how it could have that effect. Just wanted to remind people to use common sense, be smart, and trust there instincts....
@mountainsintomemories
7 ай бұрын
@@WALTERZOLNA I don’t think it’s discouraging. Doesn’t matter if you’re in the woods hiking or somewhere else. The same rules apply.
@darcyshikingdiaries
7 ай бұрын
I am SO glad you made this video Walter!! I recently got a safety alarm that I can keep on me while hiking, originally it was for bears in my mind... It makes a huge sound that will alert or scare everyone nearby.
@WALTERZOLNA
7 ай бұрын
I debated on whether to post this, but I thought it was important to put out a simple reminder that one should always be vigilant no matter how peaceful and beautiful the surroundings may seem.
@darcyshikingdiaries
7 ай бұрын
@@WALTERZOLNA It's scenarios like this that I want to have Milo go on hikes with me, but right now he is crazy on walks and I can't trust him to be calm if we cross paths with another dog or even people.
@rickyt3961
7 ай бұрын
wow! interesting.
@WALTERZOLNA
7 ай бұрын
It didnt seem very interesting at the moment lol! Or I should say I wasn't very interested in finding out too much about this fella, i just wanted to move on!
@nationalparksprincess3216
7 ай бұрын
That is crazy!! People are so unpredictable! I would have turned right around and booked it out of there! Glad your ok 👍
@WALTERZOLNA
7 ай бұрын
He never approached me or anything so maybe I overreacted... It's hard to tell, but my main point is to trust your instincts and better be safe then sorry....
@HikerDudeDad
7 ай бұрын
Wow, man.... Must have really been creepy to rattle a beast like you! This video is a great reminder this new year to stay frosty out there. It's easy to get captivated by the beauty out there, but keep your head on a swivel.
@WALTERZOLNA
7 ай бұрын
I view this video as similar to your video on when you nearly slipped into the Susquehanna river. In the end things turned out ok, but there was a realization at a certain point that things could have gone really bad.... I dont want to discourage anyone from hiking, I just want to encourage folks to be prepared and be aware of their surroundings. I'm very proud of my ability to be confident and comfortable out on the trail alone, but that doesn't change the fact that you never know what or whom you may come across on a hike. "Trust your instincts" are words to live by... Appreciate you brother, stay safe out there...
@HiddenHollowOutoors
7 ай бұрын
I had a similar experience on the AT on Peter’s Mountain. I had a transient come through camp and weird me out. Next morning I found his coveralls he was wearing at a trailhead. About a month later the rest of his gear was found farther north at Port Clinton including the stuffed unicorn he was carrying.
@WALTERZOLNA
7 ай бұрын
Stuffed unicorn? Hmm... Im used to dealing with people acting unusual in the city, alone out in the woods is a completely different situation. Thanks for sharing your story HiddenHollowOutdoors, stay safe out there.
@don55s
7 ай бұрын
I've encountered strange people on the trail. I just passed by and kept moving. Lucky they were only strange instead of dangerous. The world is full of unpredictable people. Just always have a mind set to be prepared. Great video. Thanks for sharing an important encounter with reality. ROCK ON SAFELY!!!
@WALTERZOLNA
7 ай бұрын
And most likely that was the case here - strange and not dangerous. But strange or erratic behavior in my mind is one of the first signs of potentially dangerous behavior, and why I wanted to keep a good physical distance from this individual. I don't feel good about posting this video as it flies in the face of my mission to encourage outdoor recreation and exploring beautiful scenic Pennsylvania, but I wanted to be honest about what transpired on an otherwise great hike. Appreciate you my friend, and I won't let this stop me from continuing to ROCK ON!
@ruthgoebel723
7 ай бұрын
I never hike alone; I have hiking buddies and we never go alone. I carry pepper spray as well. That would have really creeped me out for sure!
@WALTERZOLNA
7 ай бұрын
Smart move to carry pepper spray. Hiking alone isn't for everyone, in fact it's probably not for most people. It does help me create better videos when I am out by myself,but sometimes I wish I had a companion also ...
@pennsylvaniaadventurers2691
7 ай бұрын
Damn bro. Wtf? We've been fortunate to never have an experience like that. You handled it well and thanks for sharing. Good times happen alot. But bad times,especially on trail must be shared.
@WALTERZOLNA
7 ай бұрын
I always think of hiking as a perfect metaphor for life. There is a start, middle, and end. There are great moments and difficult ones. There are triumphs and failures. But we just keep pushing forward down the trail... This incident was disturbing and unfortunate, but it didn't and won't stop me from continuing to push forward down that trail of life... And in another perspective - I always show all the best and all the beauty of every hike but sometimes we'll, ----happens as it did here. 🤷
@Sadeghijart
7 ай бұрын
That is so creepy, that’s one worry I get and hardly never hike alone. I’m glad you listened to your instincts. They are usually right.
@WALTERZOLNA
7 ай бұрын
I like to think that I am a fairly strong and confident individual, but yes this situation had me unnerved. It was just a very powerful sense that washed over me that something "wasn't right" with this person. I would rather be safe then sorry in a circumstance like this...
@Sadeghijart
7 ай бұрын
@@WALTERZOLNA I’m very curious person, I hope you don’t mind asking, what part of PA or Philly you are from? I love your channel and would like to know more about the person behind the videos. Is ok if you feel like not answering private questions.
@WALTERZOLNA
7 ай бұрын
@@Sadeghijart I have lived in eastern end of Montgomery County for most of my life. I work all over the city doing construction. I don't mind answering questions like these but I don't like to get too too specific on an open forum like this.🙂
@Sadeghijart
7 ай бұрын
@@WALTERZOLNA I live in Montgomery county too, cool.
@rreuss9277
7 ай бұрын
That is really creepy. Being a woman I don't feel safe hiking alone. I always go with my husband. If I did go alone I'd definitely take my sidearm.
@WALTERZOLNA
7 ай бұрын
Well I say good for you for being responsible and making smart decisions! We all know that the vast majority of folks out there are outstanding wonderful people, but unfortunately there are a few bad apples out there... I think it's great that you are able to protect yourself if you need to. Hopefully that situation never happens...
@sonplusone7059
7 ай бұрын
Walter, this has happened to me many times. That is why it’s Son Plus One. I’ve had men come towards me in a strange and slightly aggressive way, and because Chris is usually lagging behind me, they don’t see him at first. Once they get a glimpse of him they quickly back away and move on. I have absolutely no doubt that if I was along, on these occasions, that I would have been in trouble. I truly believe (man or woman) should hike in at least pairs. When I was young, 19, I was attacked my a man in New Jersey wearing a ski mask. I had a pair of nunchuck on me (why I had them was another story) he grabbed me and started attacking. I hit him in the ear on the side of the head and he fell down and I was able to get away and call the police. Interesting fact, the police told me I was carrying an illegal weapon and could arrest me, what a system. Of course they weren’t going to arrest me but I think it was very sad that they even mentioned it. My arms were all tore up from him trying to pull me down but besides that I was fine, thank God.
@WALTERZOLNA
7 ай бұрын
Thanks for sharing your story Cheryl, I am sorry you had those experiences. You can come across a "bad apple" any time, anywhere, even out in beautiful nature. Its disheartening but a fact of life. Im glad you have Chris to accompany you when heading out. I don't want to discourage anyone from going out into nature with this video, I do want to encourage them to be aware and to be vigilant...
@sheria3571
4 ай бұрын
If something like that happens again, make sure you get video of it and they know you did. Very creepy.
@WALTERZOLNA
4 ай бұрын
I didn't really feel comfortable directly filming the individual because I didn't want to poke the bear so to speak... But I do understand what you are saying...
@travelingRonman
7 ай бұрын
Thanks for sharing a not so nice, but sometimes realistic situation. I was hiking on the A.T. at Lehigh Gap and there was a hiker by a campfire, he invited me over to chat and share some food. But the thought had crossed my mind, what if this guy tries something or doesn't have good intentions. Doesn't happen often but always good to trust your gut.
@WALTERZOLNA
7 ай бұрын
Yes, always trust your gut brother, that is all I was trying to stress in this video. If you get a bad vibe listen to it. Maybe I was wrong maybe I was right, but we all want to return home safely... Happy travels Ronman!
@bellanik2385
7 ай бұрын
Glad you shared this. This is why I’m so afraid to hike alone. 😢
@WALTERZOLNA
7 ай бұрын
I'm sorry you feel that way, that stinks but I understand... 99.9 percent of the people I encounter on the trails are the nicest friendliest people you will ever meet. I tend to hike early in the morning and in the early evening when few people are out. In the middle of the day when more folks are on the trail I think maybe is a "safer " option, but I hope this video didn't discourage you from enjoying nature!
@chuckh1958
7 ай бұрын
You asked the question what do you do in a situation like that? My immediate thoughts was Pray! Call on Jesus name..there is power in the name of Jesus.
@WALTERZOLNA
7 ай бұрын
I agree with that, and to be honest my thought is that this individual if they are having problems gets the help that they need. Its not a good situation any way that you look at it ...
@dayhikedave
7 ай бұрын
Good advice. Trust your instincts. Always be prepared. Stay safe my friend. 👍🙂🙏
@WALTERZOLNA
7 ай бұрын
You too as well Dave, the woods and trails are probably the safest place i can be relative to my job and where I live, but you just never know what or whom you may come across.
@ianrumnock
3 ай бұрын
Zolna’s gave good instincts !!!
@WALTERZOLNA
3 ай бұрын
Always trust your instincts!
@PATG1
7 ай бұрын
Great video, Bear spray will stop a grizzly it can do amazing things. It could have been a good time to call authorities with a pic of him. Stay safe ......
@WALTERZOLNA
7 ай бұрын
I wrestled with what to do. I didn't want to overreact nor underreact. Weird/creepy behavior is different from threatening/ aggressive behavior... I did alert a few hikers I saw to be cautious, it's a tough situation. I was the first one up the mountain - atleast I thought I was - as the day progressed many folks will have reached that spot creating a kind of safety in numbers I suppose. Its hard to say what is right in the situation...
@johntheberge
7 ай бұрын
There are a lot of weirdos out there, usually don't see them on hiking trails but there are always exceptions.
@WALTERZOLNA
7 ай бұрын
100% agreed, I don't want this video to discourage anyone from getting out there, but I just wanted to relay my experience here and emphasize that one should always go with there gut instincts...
@CraigKoppel
7 ай бұрын
Gen just showed me a post from a FB friend who was at the top of Mt Minsi 16 hours ago. He took a selfie and he’s wearing all black, Gen says he’s not a weirdo or homeless and is in his 60’s. Probably not the same guy but what a coincidence.
@WALTERZOLNA
7 ай бұрын
I did see an older fellow matching that description along the trail. I was hesitant to post this because nothing technically happened other than me getting a bad feeling about someone. I don't want to disparage anyone's character either, I only know that I got a feeling that I very rarely if ever have gotten on a hike before. My main message is to be cautious, be safe, trust your instincts, and if you feel something is not right with someone get away from them, and at a very last resort protect yourself by whatever means you have. I would love to hear your opinion based on your background what you would do if you found yourself in a similar situation as I was in, or if you have any advice. Again its entirely possible I overreacted, but I think error on the side of caution is the right move.... Thanks Craig.
@CraigKoppel
7 ай бұрын
@@WALTERZOLNA I would have done the same thing- ignore him. I have a firearm on me every hike so I’m always protected. I’ll probably never need it but there’s too many mentally ill and bad people out there.
@kateclark7250
7 ай бұрын
This was super creepy. Bears and snakes aren't scary, but people are. Be safe, my friend.
@WALTERZOLNA
7 ай бұрын
Agree with that for the most part. People are certainly the most unpredictable. Even after this unusual incident I will say what I have said for years - I feel a million times safer in the woods then I do in the city....
@jennsylvania1633
7 ай бұрын
He most likely was on something ...possibly having a bad trip. Always be aware of your surroundings, trust your instincts and carry protection. Funny thing is, I learned all of that living in the city...lol...I'm glad that you're okay, Walter. Stay safe and maybe carry some pepper spray along with that knife.
@WALTERZOLNA
7 ай бұрын
I work every day in the inner city and come across all manner of folks, sometimes unfortunately you can tell someone is a bit "off" in there behavior. That is why I didn't approach or question this guy. I wanted to maintain that physical distance and not engage them directly and then have them come towards me, forcing a confrontation. I do believe this individual was on drugs or having mental problems for sure...
@2bkind2u
7 ай бұрын
Come on Walter, grow a pair! Get the guy on video! After all your middle name is adventure. If he saw you videotape him, I bet you would have really had an adventure! Just kidding. Glad you didn’t become another victim of a crazy on the AT. There have been a number of them.
@WALTERZOLNA
7 ай бұрын
Well that was the thing. I didn't want to approach him or engage with him and cause him to come towards me! I see a good bit of distressed folks in my travels across Philadelphia, the last thing you want is for one of them to come right up into your personal space. I know that sounds cold, but it's a reality of making it home at the end of the day ... 🤷
@verdashirk9819
7 ай бұрын
Glad you were safe Walter and followed your instincts. I am very careful where I go hiking and if I am not sure about the trail, I usually ask my husband to go along. Maybe you should think about getting a dog. : )
@WALTERZOLNA
7 ай бұрын
I think this was a fluke situation I don't think there is anything unsafe about this trail or location . I think generally speaking we should all always be aware and cautious no matter where the location. As far as a dog, I would love a k9 companion on the trail, it's something I have been thinking about....
@scarletbegonia74
7 ай бұрын
There's a book called The gift of fear by Gavin de Becker. It basically talks about how we should honor those creepy feelings we get. And a lot of times when bad things happen, it's because we didn't listen to those instincts. It's a bummer this happened to you. As a woman on the trail, I feel like this happens all the time. I also feel like the trail systems in parks lately have been infiltrated with nefarious characters since the covid shut down. I'm not saying the two are related, but the economy might have something to do with it. I'm glad you stayed safe
@WALTERZOLNA
7 ай бұрын
Thanks for that great comment I agree with everything you are saying. The lockdowns definitely caused much more people to head into the outdoors and many realized how wonderful it is and stuck with it. The state of the economy and social issues in the country has also certainly increased the amount of homeless, there's millions of people in the country who aren't even American citizens, and mental illness issues are more prevalent then ever. There is a lot happening at once, I still say out in the woods is the best place to be , but yes we all have to be careful wherever we go now a days...
@daverogers9386
7 ай бұрын
You are so right with this. Whenever hiking you must stay alert and be aware of your surroundings. That goes for anywhere sad to say. I’ve only come across a few strange people hiking, most are very nice. When I come across anyone I try to read the situation. Hands in pockets is always a red flag to me, I want to see the hands. Once I came across two young guys that seemed out there. They just looked at me, nodded, and said “Hi” with some kind smirk. They continued on as did I. The fact that I had a nice survival knife I’m sure had something to do with that. I always hike alone so I listen for any sound. We all need to stay alert, stay on guard, and carry some sort of protection. Better safe than sorry, or worse.
@WALTERZOLNA
7 ай бұрын
Good advice and comments Dave thanks. I too find my sense of hearing to be my best asset out in the woods. 90 % of the time I will hear people before I see them. Even in this case I heard something which I thought was an animal but it alerted me to the presence of something being back in the tree line behind me. And yes, "hiking folks" as a whole are the nicest people you ever want to meet. Be vigilant, that's all I can say...
@3degreeimages
6 ай бұрын
Sorry that happened to you, but thanks for sharing your experience and reminding us (solo) hikers that we are in fact, out there by ourselves and must be on our guard at all times. It's easy to get complacent when you are walking and embraced by pure nature.
@WALTERZOLNA
6 ай бұрын
I think your comments are perfectly well stated...
@anninwhack1998
7 ай бұрын
Very creepy. Glad it’s all ok for you and too bad it ruined your vibe on a rare gorgeous day. Thankfully it doesn’t happen often. Take care!!
@WALTERZOLNA
7 ай бұрын
Things like this can happen anywhere anytime, 99.9 % of the people I have met on the trail are the friendliest nicest people you can imagine.
@fivehorizons5295
7 ай бұрын
Holy crap! Good thing you had that knife. Best thing in that situation is to keep moving and trust your instincts for sure!
@WALTERZOLNA
7 ай бұрын
My main concern at the time was maintaining a physical distance from the individual. Its sad but a reality but there are many mentally unhealthy individuals out there in todays world. It was definitely an unnerving experience, and I think in the end the simple message of the video is just that to trust your instincts...
@quietjohnoutandabout6578
7 ай бұрын
You are right on. It is a grand trail, but we need to be aware of what is around us.
@WALTERZOLNA
7 ай бұрын
I don't want to disparage the AT, or Mt Minsi in any way, this type of incident could have happened anywhere anytime, which in away is actually the point of this video I think...
@charliejg
7 ай бұрын
Love that climb out of Delaware Water Gap on the AT. I usually hike all the way to the power line cut. I've had a few creepy situations on trail. One was a kid about middle school age all in military garb with air soft guns walking and talking to himself. More recently, I've come across encampments several times now. That really makes me nervous and I just do a 180 and make tracks out of there. Thanks for the PSA and reminder to be careful out there, especially hiking alone. Have a great week!
@WALTERZOLNA
7 ай бұрын
It seems to me, atleast in the city where I spend most of my time - unfortunately - that homelessness, and the amount of drug addicted or unhinged individuals is higher than its ever been. And it only makes sense to me that this scenario is unfolding everywhere across the country. Its a sad state of affairs but a reality nonetheless. I go for my weekend walks to heal my mind, spirit, and body from the toxicity of daily life, and my hikes are overwhelmingly the most positive and wonderful experiences - even this day was a great hike - but yes one should always remain vigilant at all times no matter the surroundings...
@charliejg
7 ай бұрын
@@WALTERZOLNA Absolutely! Even a weird day in the woods is a great day!!
@therestlessgardener9287
7 ай бұрын
Oh Walter, this was creepy! I used to hike by myself ALL THE TIME! As a woman I never got creeped out, except maybe one time, but I always just walked tall and carried a big stick, so to speak, and was always aware of my surroundings. But in the last few years I don't feel safe hiking on my own anymore and that really pisses me off; how dare others steal our joy.
@WALTERZOLNA
7 ай бұрын
I read your comment and winced, I really felt that, thank you for sharing. It's a different dynamic being a solo female compared to a male unfortunately. I love solo hiking because It gives me the deepest connection to nature - I can really tune into, and immerse myself in my surroundings, and that is where I find true happiness, a zen type of feeling... I wish for everyone to experience that feeling, its part of what this channel is about... Hiking with a companion is a different experience, there is the joy of sharing a moment with another person which can be deeply satisfying, but there is also the distraction of that other person which can take away at times from that unique connection to the natural world. It's a tough call, one has to make that judgement for themselves whether they feel comfortable setting out alone...
@therestlessgardener9287
7 ай бұрын
@@WALTERZOLNA @WALTERZOLNA Totally agree with you. I go into the woods to get away from people, so it's a time of solace for me. Even having my husband along can be very distracting. There are places where I still go alone and feel fine, but there are some places that just feel off lately. But there's no way I'm giving up hiking!
@debbiehills2928
7 ай бұрын
❤😮😢sorry this happened to you walter. Have to defend yourself first! I do always worry about you by yourself. Can you carry mace or pepper spray??!! That cherry smell is something he is smoking! Beautiful blue sky and sunshine!❤
@WALTERZOLNA
7 ай бұрын
I hate posting this kind of video, the overall hike was gorgeous, but you always have to be aware of your surroundings, especially in this day and age, alot of unwell people out in the world...
@nancymann5351
7 ай бұрын
I know its nice to have the trail, overlook to yourself,but maybe it's better when it's crowded. Maybe he was pretending to be Bigfoot. Do you think you should alert the authorities?
@WALTERZOLNA
7 ай бұрын
I did consider that, I talked to a few hikers I saw giving them a heads up...
@Hiking.Inspired
7 ай бұрын
You can prepare yourself to deal with wildlife, ticks, and weather but the most unpredictable thing out there will always be humans. You’re great at adding suspense to your vids man! And a great tip for others!
@WALTERZOLNA
7 ай бұрын
Agreed, man for sure is the most unpredictable creature one can come across. Maybe I overreacted and read the situation wrong... maybe not... but I would encourage anyone out there to err on the side of caution in these kinds of situations.
@gracegarden1
7 ай бұрын
Oh, Walter! I have goosebumps! I wouldn't want to put my Freya in harm's way, but she would give a bad guy pause. Glad you share the bad stuff, too, and keep it real. Peace & Prayers.
@WALTERZOLNA
7 ай бұрын
I just wanted to be honest about my experience.... People can take of it what they will, it's always better to error in the side of safety...
@carolkoniecki
7 ай бұрын
@@WALTERZOLNA I have had 'creepy' experiences just sitting at a traffic light in my van - my old van that the door locks didn't work! I whipped out my cell phone ( youtuber habits ) and pretended to video. The person changed their mind and turned away. (Also, my kids can get into my google acct. so they can find me if I go missing by my photo record)🤭
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