Backroad Odyssey : Travel Stories, Van Life & Road Trip Oddities

Dive into the vibrant world of van life with us at the Descend Gathering in Oregon! 

Every year HUNDREDS of vans gather for live music, community and a general celebration of non-traditional living - Noodles and I are one of the vans this year. 

We share tips and insights for anyone curious about van life and the event that celebrates it.

With countless four-legged friends adding to the charm, Descend provides a space where everyone—whether in a van, car, or tent—feels welcome.

As always we’ll take listener questions at the end, including: 

• Is there anything you feel you left out in the Mount Saint Helens episode? 
• What is the worst errand in Van Life? 
• Halloween is coming up, will Noodles have a costume? 
• How do you have enough storage space in your van? 

Noah and Noodles here!

We want to extend a heartfelt thanks to every listener of Backroad Odyssey.

Your support fuels our passion and inspires us to keep sharing stories and discover overlooked locations.

Follow each adventure visually at:

https://www.instagram.com/backroadsodyssey/

44 years after it's eruption, Noodles and I camp at the base of the - still active -  Mount Saint Helens. 

We explore the  tales of Harry Truman, the lodge owner who famously refused to leave despite the looming danger, and David Johnston, a devoted volcanologist committed to monitoring the volcano and saving lives. 

We also make a case for why this iconic volcano, nestled within the majestic Cascade Range, remains a must-see destination for nature and history lovers. 

 

Works Cited:

https://www.jstor.org/stable/40475407?searchText=mount+saint+helens&searchUri=%2Faction%2FdoBasicSearch%3FQuery%3Dmount%2Bsaint%2Bhelens%26utm_source%3Dgoogle%26so%3Drel&ab_segments=0%2Fbasic_search_gsv2%2Fcontrol&refreqid=fastly-default%3A040e395c0e2de6e31a1e68973019e61b&seq=1

https://www.jstor.org/stable/40490705?readnow=1&seq=2#page_scan_tab_contents

https://www.usgs.gov/observatories/cascades-volcano-observatory/legacy-david-johnston

https://www.columbian.com/news/2013/dec/26/mount-st-helens-eruption-blackburn-lost-roll-film/

https://www.nationalgeographic.com/science/article/160320-mount-st-helens-eruption-logging-volcano-olson-ngbooktalk

https://www.history.com/topics/natural-disasters-and-environment/mount-st-helens

https://www.fs.usda.gov/detailfull/giffordpinchot/learning/nature-science/?cid=fseprd734630#:~:text=On%20the%20morning%20of%20May,in%20a%20powerful%20lateral%20blast.

https://www.usgs.gov/volcanoes/mount-st.-helens/science/1980-cataclysmic-eruption

https://thatoregonlife.com/2022/05/mt-st-helens-eruption-images/

https://www.oregonlive.com/pacific-northwest-news/2020/05/mount-st-helens-eruption-witnesses-recall-terror-awe-when-mountain-exploded-40-years-ago.html

https://www.seattlemet.com/travel-and-outdoors/2020/05/a-timeline-of-mount-st-helens

https://unapologeticnerd.com/2015/05/18/he-died-as-he-lived-david-a-johnston/

https://www.theatlantic.com/photo/2015/05/the-eruption-of-mount-st-helens-in-1980/393557/

Noah and Noodles here!

We want to extend a heartfelt thanks to every listener of Backroad Odyssey.

Your support fuels our passion and inspires us to keep sharing stories and discover overlooked locations.

Follow each adventure visually at:

https://www.instagram.com/backroadsodyssey/

We're about to make those long drives a laugh-filled adventure with our all time TOP COMEDY podcast picks.

We do the work for you and unpack our recommendations WITH specific episodes to get you into each show.

As always we’ll take listener questions at the end.



Here are links to each episode recommendation (see episode for thoughts and descriptions) :

Show One - Comedy Bang-Bang
Episode - https://youtu.be/INI7Pwg8Cjs?si=SUIVHQ6GbqgLkmnZ


Show Two - Conan O'Brian Needs A Friend
Episode - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/conan-obrien-needs-a-friend/id1438054347?i=1000437939159


Show Three - We're Here to Help
Episode - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/were-here-to-help/id1702753838?i=1000625229471

Noah and Noodles here!

We want to extend a heartfelt thanks to every listener of Backroad Odyssey.

Your support fuels our passion and inspires us to keep sharing stories and discover overlooked locations.

Follow each adventure visually at:

https://www.instagram.com/backroadsodyssey/

Countless prehistoric images populate the landscapes of the American Southwest.

Some are meticulously engraved into stone, others carefully painted upon cave walls ...

The exact meaning behind many of these illustrations remain illusive. 

-

Embark on our exploration of the timeless rock carvings and paintings found in Capitol Reef National Park, Utah.

These are the mysteries of the Utah Petroglyphs!

Works Cited:


https://www.jstor.org/stable/3628598?read-now=1&seq=1#page_scan_tab_contents

https://www.jstor.org/stable/27825077?read-now=1&seq=1#page_scan_tab_contents

https://www.jstor.org/stable/27696249

https://www.nps.gov/articles/seug-rock-markings.htm

https://www.blm.gov/blog/2021-03-25/petroglyphs-hidden-plain-sight-insights-prehistoric-rock-imagery-utahs-west-desert

https://www.myutahparks.com/things-to-do/attractions/utah-petroglyphs-pictographs/

https://www.hikingwalking.com/index.php/destinations/ut/ut_sc/capitol_reef/fremont_petro

https://historytogo.utah.gov/fremont-indians/

https://www.visitutah.com/places-to-go/parks-outdoors/capitol-reef/capitol-reef-petroglyphs

https://www.archaeologysouthwest.org/2023/03/08/why-i-no-longer-call-it-art/

https://www.southernute-nsn.gov/history/

https://blogs.ubc.ca/etec540sept12/2012/10/28/the-importance-of-petroglyphs/

Noah and Noodles here!

We want to extend a heartfelt thanks to every listener of Backroad Odyssey.

Your support fuels our passion and inspires us to keep sharing stories and discover overlooked locations.

Follow each adventure visually at:

https://www.instagram.com/backroadsodyssey/

Every road trip is a story waiting to be told.

In my two years of van life, I’ve gathered three resources that have become invaluable in planning and ensuring successful, safe and memorable road trips. 

Discover how the Road Trippers app can guide you to unexpected treasures like Michael Jackson's birthplace, GIANT leg sundials and other quirky roadside attractions—all without spending a dime.

More resources are explored in the episode!

As always, we'll answer listener questions at the end. 

Noah and Noodles here!

We want to extend a heartfelt thanks to every listener of Backroad Odyssey.

Your support fuels our passion and inspires us to keep sharing stories and discover overlooked locations.

Follow each adventure visually at:

https://www.instagram.com/backroadsodyssey/

In the bustling metropolis of Seattle, Washington, a curious resident claims the shadows beneath Aurora Bridge …. 

Those who dare to venture below the bridge- more accurately, those that survive to tell the tale - speak of his sheer size, stern gaze and possessive nature… 

But few can tell you the reason for his residency … and that, my friends is a story worth telling. 

This is the story of the Fremont Troll 



In depth: 

What if a single piece of public art could encapsulate the history, culture, and spirit of an entire neighborhood? Join us as we explore the captivating tale of Seattle's Fremont Troll. Beginning with the nostalgic Norwegian folklore of "The Three Billy Goats Gruff," we unravel how this story inspired the creation of the 18-foot, 13,000-pound sculpture that has since become an icon of the Fremont neighborhood. 

Wander with us through Fremont's vibrant streets—teeming with artists, students, and tech professionals—and witness firsthand the community's deep connection to this monumental troll.

Trolloween:

https://fremontartscouncil.org/trolloween

Song about the Fremont Troll (by Chicago the band - Majungas)

https://music.apple.com/us/album/the-fremont-troll/1276333443?i=1276333444



Works Cited:

https://www.seattletimes.com/life/a-brief-history-of-the-fremont-troll-a-menace-that-evokes-a-smile/

https://seattle.curbed.com/2019/6/4/18650083/fremont-bridge-troll-history-location

https://sites.pitt.edu/~dash/type0122e.html

https://wanderwisdom.com/travel-destinations/All-About-the-Seattle-Fremont-Troll-and-How-to-Find-It

https://wedgwoodinseattlehistory.com/2015/05/01/history-of-the-fremont-neighborhood-in-seattle/

https://historylink.org/File/1320

https://visitseattle.org/neighborhoods/fremont-wallingford/

https://fremontartscouncil.org/trolloween

https://seattle.curbed.com/2019/6/4/18650083/fremont-bridge-troll-history-location

https://themonumentous.com/exploring-the-economic-and-cultural-impact-of-the-fremont-troll/

Noah and Noodles here!

We want to extend a heartfelt thanks to every listener of Backroad Odyssey.

Your support fuels our passion and inspires us to keep sharing stories and discover overlooked locations.

Follow each adventure visually at:

https://www.instagram.com/backroadsodyssey/

Grand Teton National Park has LONG ranked as one of my favorite areas in the nation …

Today we explore a brief history of the park and share tips, tricks, stories and recommendations for your next visit.

We also answer listener questions, which include: 

• Do you personally believe in Cryptids? 
• How many miles does your van get per gallon? 
• Is Montana as beautiful as I’ve heard? 
• Where do you shower? 
• Why look into the flathead lake monster specifically? 

Below you'll find links to all my recommendations:

Our Favorite Hike (to Delta Lake):

https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/wyoming/delta-lake-via-lupine-meadows-access


First thing to do upon arriving:

https://exploregtnp.com/42-mile-scenic-drive-grand-teton-national-park/


Great stop for a quick photo:

https://jacksonholehistory.org/learn/archives-research/moulton-barn-landscapes-of-loss/


Outside the park:

Great museum with a restaurant overlooking the valley:

https://www.wildlifeart.org/


Recs for nearby Jackson: 

Live music, dancing, SADDLE SEATS: 

https://www.google.com/search?client=safari&rls=en&q=million+dollar+cowboy+bar&ie=UTF-8&oe=UTF-8

Unique bourbon shop:

https://spiritsandspice.com/?srsltid=AfmBOoohLINjPfwxOcPrPvHmYPm7AvhHDzeG7Nfmz3EBX9QRRnJLKiAG

coordinates to my favorite free campsite right outside the park: 

43 45'49.7"N 110 33'09.8"W

Noah and Noodles here!

We want to extend a heartfelt thanks to every listener of Backroad Odyssey.

Your support fuels our passion and inspires us to keep sharing stories and discover overlooked locations.

Follow each adventure visually at:

https://www.instagram.com/backroadsodyssey/

What lies in the murky depths of Flathead lake?

Situated neatly between the Mission and Salish Mountain Ranges Northwest Montana, the lake has long been a hotbed for sightings that defy description ...

One recurring sighting - that of the Flathead Lake Monster (or Flessie) - has been constant for well over a century.

 Today we dive into its waters.




works cited:


https://www.jstor.org/stable/25746452?read-now=1&seq=2#page_scan_tab_contents

https://www.jstor.org/stable/pdf/533052.pdf?refreqid=fastly-default%3Ad146d4b6e5ed41c5e832ff85c4a86fab&ab_segments=0%2Fbasic_search_gsv2%2Fcontrol&origin=&initiator=&acceptTC=1

https://www.jstor.org/stable/40914539?searchText=lake%20monsters&searchUri=%2Faction%2FdoBasicSearch%3FQuery%3Dlake%2Bmonsters%26so%3Drel&ab_segments=0%2Fbasic_search_gsv2%2Fcontrol&refreqid=fastly-default%3A723b24f3b96cc1b239f31e404af1b5f0

https://www.jstor.org/stable/1748929?searchText=lake%20monsters&searchUri=%2Faction%2FdoBasicSearch%3FQuery%3Dlake%2Bmonsters%26utm_source%3Dgoogle%26so%3Drel&ab_segments=0%2Fbasic_search_gsv2%2Fcontrol&refreqid=fastly-default%3A3c95b3f77d76c297970671f8bc926102?searchText=lake%20monsters&searchUri=%2Faction%2FdoBasicSearch%3FQuery%3Dlake%2Bmonsters%26utm_source%3Dgoogle%26so%3Drel&ab_segments=0%2Fbasic_search_gsv2%2Fcontrol&refreqid=fastly-default%3A3c95b3f77d76c297970671f8bc926102?searchText=lake%20monsters&searchUri=%2Faction%2FdoBasicSearch%3FQuery%3Dlake%2Bmonsters%26utm_source%3Dgoogle%26so%3Drel&ab_segments=0%2Fbasic_search_gsv2%2Fcontrol&refreqid=fastly-default%3A3c95b3f77d76c297970671f8bc926102?searchText=lake%20monsters&searchUri=%2Faction%2FdoBasicSearch%3FQuery%3Dlake%2Bmonsters%26utm_source%3Dgoogle%26so%3Drel&ab_segments=0%2Fbasic_search_gsv2%2Fcontrol&refreqid=fastly-default%3A3c95b3f77d76c297970671f8bc926102?searchText=lake%20monsters&searchUri=%2Faction%2FdoBasicSearch%3FQuery%3Dlake%2Bmonsters%26utm_source%3Dgoogle%26so%3Drel&ab_segments=0%2Fbasic_search_gsv2%2Fcontrol&refreqid=fastly-default%3A3c95b3f77d76c297970671f8bc926102?searchText=lake%20monsters&searchUri=%2Faction%2FdoBasicSearch%3FQuery%3Dlake%2Bmonsters%26utm_source%3Dgoogle%26so%3Drel&ab_segments=0%2Fbasic_search_gsv2%2Fcontrol&refreqid=fastly-default%3A3c95b3f77d76c297970671f8bc926102?searchText=lake%20monsters&searchUri=%2Faction%2FdoBasicSearch%3FQuery%3Dlake%2Bmonsters%26utm_source%3Dgoogle%26so%3Drel&ab_segments=0%2Fbasic_search_gsv2%2Fcontrol&refreqid=fastly-default%3A3c95b3f77d76c297970671f8bc926102?searchText=lake%20monsters&searchUri=%2Faction%2FdoBasicSearch%3FQuery%3Dlake%2Bmonsters%26utm_source%3Dgoogle%26so%3Drel&ab_segments=0%2Fbasic_search_gsv2%2Fcontrol&refreqid=fastly-default%3A3c95b3f77d76c297970671f8bc926102

https://www.flatheadlakers.org/flathead-lake-monster

https://www.jahernandez.com/posts/flessie-the-flathead-lake-monster-of-montana

https://whistlingandy.com/blogs/the-blog/the-legend-of-the-flathead-lake-monster-a-mystery-of-the-

Noah and Noodles here!

We want to extend a heartfelt thanks to every listener of Backroad Odyssey.

Your support fuels our passion and inspires us to keep sharing stories and discover overlooked locations.

Follow each adventure visually at:

https://www.instagram.com/backroadsodyssey/

Here are our TOP THREE picks for beautiful - relatively short - roads everyone should experience at least once in their life. 

Remember, the best way to get to where you're going is often WELL out of your way. 

Here's to traveling Americas most beautiful winding roads and scenic byways! 

As always, we’ll also take listener questions at the end - questions include: 



Did Thoreau eve marry? 

What has been your favorite meal on the road? 

What is Transcendentalism? 

Have you ever thought about quitting van life? 

Noah and Noodles here!

We want to extend a heartfelt thanks to every listener of Backroad Odyssey.

Your support fuels our passion and inspires us to keep sharing stories and discover overlooked locations.

Follow each adventure visually at:

https://www.instagram.com/backroadsodyssey/

We’ve explored the reasons behind Thoreau’s decision to leave for Walden Pond,  examined the seasons he spent along it’s shore ... and NOW must acknowledge one -  unavoidable - fact: 

Thoreau chooses to leave the pond …

Why?

Good Walden Audio Book:

https://www.audible.com/pd/Walden-or-Life-in-the-Woods-Audiobook/B074WBSHHT?qid=1724951191&sr=1-4&ref_pageloadid=not_applicable&ref=a_search_c3_lProduct_1_4&pf_rd_p=83218cca-c308-412f-bfcf-90198b687a2f&pf_rd_r=8EF5G82Q7JKKQK3Q0MGQ&pageLoadId=NFSaC0c1lnFsXpHh&creativeId=0d6f6720-f41c-457e-a42b-8c8dceb62f2c


Civil Disobedience, Full Text:

https://libertas.org/books/civildisobedience.pdf



Works Cited:


https://www.amazon.com/Civil-Disobedience-Henry-David-Thoreau/dp/1619490927

https://www.amazon.com/Walden-Henry-David-Thoreau/dp/1619493918

https://plato.stanford.edu/entries/thoreau/

https://www.jstor.org/stable/461300?read-now=1&seq=4#page_scan_tab_contents

https://www.jstor.org/stable/j.ctvrs90hh.12?searchText=henry+david&searchUri=%2Faction%2FdoBasicSearch%3FQuery%3Dhenry%2Bdavid%26so%3Drel&ab_segments=0%2Fbasic_search_gsv2%2Fcontrol&refreqid=fastly-default%3Ad123667cd32b752e3fcd984b64929d40

https://www.jstor.org/stable/pdf/j.ctvrs90hh.12.pdf?refreqid=fastly-default%3A90df29e6fe53afc4ccdf61e002a28f6c&ab_segments=0%2Fbasic_search_gsv2%2Fcontrol&origin=&initiator=&acceptTC=1

https://www.walden.org/education/for-students/myths-and-misconceptions/


https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poets/henry-david-thoreau

https://www.nps.gov/places/walden-pond-in-the-walden-pond-state-reservation.htm

https://www.britannica.com/biography/Henry-David-Thoreau/Legacy

https://thoreaufarm.org/tag/thoreaus-death/

https://www.boston.com/travel/travel/2017/08/09/heres-why-you-should-wander-walden-pond/

https://www.walden.org/education/for-students/thoreaus-place/

https://blogs.uoregon.edu/environmentalliterature230/2012/10/15/the-awakening-hour/

https://nautil.us/the-deep-time-of-walden-pond-237054/

https://daily.jstor.org/myth-henry-david-thoreaus-isolation/

https://www.jstor.org/stable/2379656?read-now=1&seq=11#page_scan_tab_contents

Noah and Noodles here!

We want to extend a heartfelt thanks to every listener of Backroad Odyssey.

Your support fuels our passion and inspires us to keep sharing stories and discover overlooked locations.

Follow each adventure visually at:

https://www.instagram.com/backroadsodyssey/