This episode chronicles the adventures of Isabella Bird, the remarkable 19th century British explorer who famously ascended Longs Peak, Colorado, in 1873 with her guide and companion Jim Nugent. 

The story of Bird and Jim illuminates the early history and character of Estes Park, as her writings helped establish the town as a tourist destination, and parallels with the broader historic myth of the frontier and the American west.

Bird remains an inspiration to the locals of Estes Park, including restaurateur Melissa Strong. We visit her new restaurant Bird & Jim to hear of her near-death experience and learn how Isabella’s determination to break the conventions of the time was an inspiration for Melissa’s subsequent recovery.

Hosted by Wanderlust founding editor Lyn Hughes and special features editor Rosie Fitzgerald, this episode was produced in partnership with Estes Park, Colorado,

Wanderlust is the UK’s leading independent travel magazine which has been taking the road less travelled since 1993.

Learn more at wanderlustmagazine.com

Become a Wanderlust Club Member to join our community of serious travelers for just £35 a year. This will get you 6 beautiful collectible issues, exclusive member- only competitions and events, access to our entire online archive back to 2010, plus heaps of other benefits.

Learn more about Estes Park at www.visitestespark.com/
and search for "Exploring Estes Park" on your podcatcher to hear more

This series is brought to you by Battleface travel insurance. Protect your trip at battleface.com/wanderlust