March 11, 2025

Maureen Kelly’s Spiritual Quest: Vanished in Gifford Pinchot

Maureen Kelly’s Spiritual Quest: Vanished in Gifford Pinchot

In June 2013, 19-year-old Maureen Leianuhea “Anu” Kelly set off on a camping trip with friends in the vast and unspoiled wilderness Gifford Pinchot National Forest. The backdrop was both scenic and rugged. What was supposed to be a carefree adventure...

In June 2013, 19-year-old Maureen Leianuhea “Anu” Kelly set off on a camping trip with friends in the vast and unspoiled wilderness Gifford Pinchot National Forest. The backdrop was both scenic and rugged. What was supposed to be a carefree adventure outdoors turned into a chilling mystery when Anu walked away from their campsite—completely nude, save for her fanny pack—and never returned.

Despite extensive search efforts, the only trace of her was a set of footprints leading toward a road. Her extremely limited supplies, tucked into the fanny pack she’d donned, would do little to stave off any number of threats she may have encountered in the woods. Over the years, theories have swirled - while she may have been seeking a spiritual awakening her whereabouts have remained unknown since that fateful night. Did she fall victim to the harsh wilderness? Or is it possible that something far more sinister happened that night?

Join us as we retrace Anu’s final known steps, explore the many theories surrounding her mysterious disappearance, and discuss the latest developments—including the discovery of human remains in the Big Lava Bed located in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest in August of 2024. 

Tangents about previous episodes include: Episode 104: Silver Falls - AKA "Ghost City USA"

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