Uwharrie Cryptid Hunt
- Overnight Jaunt -
Mystery · Folklore · Fireside Nights
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Uwharrie Mountains $250 October 24 - 25, 2026
Anyone who has hiked or hunted in the Uwharrie mountains will tell you about the strange calls at dusk, the shapes that move just past the firelight, or the weird blur on the trail camera. So many people have experienced something strange that there's a whole festival dedicated to it. These aren't the tallest mountains in North Carolina — but they might be the strangest- and the oldest.
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This is your chance to spend two easy days wandering a wild, mysterious wilderness — tracking, listening, and learning the skills that let you move through the dark forest like you belong there.
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*Functional costumes encouraged*
The 'Hunt'
We'll rendezvous in the Uwharrie Mountains of central North Carolina—ancient peaks worn smooth by time, dense forests that feel older than memory, trails that wind through ridges and hollows where things still feel wild despite being hours (not days) from civilization. Locals still whisper about what moves through here at night. We're going to go find out for ourselves.
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This adventure is an easier pace than the Ranger trips- with shorter miles each day. But you'll still carry what you need on your back- and learn the same skills: fire craft, tracking, tarp rigging and navigation.
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Each evening we'll gather around the fire to trade stories, cook our meals, and listen to the dark.
You probably won't find Bigfoot. But you'll find out what you're capable of in the woods after dark — and that might be the better story anyway.​
The Ranger Skillset
This is a relaxed trip with a focus on camaraderie, story telling and nature connection. We'll be enjoying the journey through these wild and mysterious hills but you'll still have opportunities for skill building. Learn all the things- or spend your time scanning the forest for a blur of fur.
Navigation
We'll navigate using map, compass, and terrain awareness through forests where landmarks can disappear in dense canopy.
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Fire Craft
Breakfast and dinner are cooked over fires you build. You'll practice sourcing wood, building structures that work in different conditions, managing coals for cooking. Fire becomes a tool, not just a romantic idea.
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Awareness
Reading what the forest and the mountain, and the weather, tells you. Animal signs. Human passage. Water sources. The effect of wind and rain. The ability to notice what's there and what's missing. To see patterns others walk right past.​
Wilderness Living
Setting up efficient camps. Managing water. Staying comfortable under tarps. Small skills that compound into genuine capability. You'll learn how to stay comfortable in the wild.
Who is this for?
You should come if:
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You like your hikes with a side of folklore and firelight
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You want real outdoor skills wrapped in a genuinely fun, slightly spooky story
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Easy pace, big atmosphere — perfect if hardcore backpacking isn't your thing
Prerequisites: Basic fitness — comfortable hiking a few easy miles a day with a loaded pack. No experience necessary.​
About Your Instructor
Ali
Ali has wanted to live off-grid in the woods since she was little. Everyone told her it was impossible, so she did the next-best thing and became an outdoor educator. She has led wilderness expeditions all over the world in diverse landscapes- from the Sahara desert to the Thai jungle. She is an avid explorer, hunter and hide tanner. Always looking to go deeper, to learn more, and to transform, she tackled the 21 day challenge on Naked and Afraid- surviving 21 days in the Zambian bush .
Gear You'll Need
You'll need a pack (55-65 liters) with a frame that distributes weight to your hips and fits you properly. We do have a couple of packs for rent—you can add them at checkout. Each person should bring their own sleeping bag (20F), sleeping pad (3.5+ R value), and clothes. We ask that your base weight be less than 10 lbs so you can help carry group gear and food.
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Other items you'll need: bowl and spoon, headlamp, bug spray, etc. You'll receive a complete gear list once you sign up, and we'll have a Zoom call to answer questions once you register. If you've never backpacked before, don't worry—we'll help you figure out what to bring and wear.
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We Provide:
Tarps to sleep under, ground sheets, cooking pots, first aid kit, GPS signaling device, and all food. We'll get your dietary restrictions and allergies when you apply. Read more about our risk management and certifications HERE.
Our Philosophy:
We trust you to know your body and your gear, so our packing list is less specific than many outdoor companies you may have explored with. For example, most companies require ankle-high backpacking boots, but Ali hikes in sandals because that's what works best for her. You'll find our gear list much more relaxed.
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Challenge Yourself:
This is an opportunity to test your skills. Want to start fires only with flint and steel? Or friction? Bring it on. Carrying a pack you made yourself? Awesome.
Ali in a fast drying hunter's hoodie, running shorts (with pockets!) and a sword belt with a ranger knife
What is a 'functional costume?'
We want you to wear what you feel badass in. We want you to wear clothes and accessories that show the world who you are and what you love. While we want you to look and feel awesome, we will be living and traveling outdoors for five days, so some fabrics and styles just won't cut it.
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Fit and Function
​Your clothes should be comfortable and allow you to move freely. They should not create a tripping hazard (like long skirts) and should provide protection against things like sun, wind, rain, and cold. You should be able to climb, squat and sit comfortably in your clothes and they should not interfere with carrying your pack.
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Layers
Your clothes for the trip should include warm layers and rain gear to keep your dry. The southeastern mountains tend to be warm during the day and chilly at night, with high winds on ridgelines.
Fabrics
The composition of the fabric matters just as much as the fit. Cotton and spandex LOVE water. They soak up water and hold onto it, keeping you wet and cold. Aim to wear clothes made from materials that dry quickly and keep your body temperature regulated even when wet. These include: polyester, nylon, wool, cashmere, alpaca, hemp and linen. If there is spandex in your clothes, keep the amount under 13%.
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