EPISODE 4: Patagonia — Adventure, Friendship and the Power of Saying Yes

In this episode, host Jeff Hester sits down with Carisa and Janice, two high-energy adventure partners and longtime members of the Social Hiker / Six-Pack of Peaks community, to relive their unforgettable group trip to Patagonia.

What unfolds is a story about friendship, trust, saying yes to big adventures, and the surprising moments that happen when you step outside your comfort zone—whether that’s tackling a Via Ferrata for the first time, hiking through snowfall in the final days of summer, or having your bus boarded by a K9 unit in the middle of the Argentinian countryside.

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⭐ Episode Highlights

• Saying YES to Patagonia

Carisa pitched the idea and Janice said yes—without fully knowing what the trip entailed. Their philosophy:

“Why not go to Patagonia?”
They share how adventure becomes more meaningful with a friend who’s always ready to join in.

• From Gym Buddies to Adventure Partners

The two met at a gym years ago, bonding over hiking and quickly falling into complementary travel roles—Carisa handles logistics, Janice navigates flights and bookings. Their dynamic makes them ideal travel partners.

• What Makes Patagonia Magical

From El Chaltén’s international vibe to the dramatic skyline of Fitz Roy, the duo reflect on how the landscape feels both familiar and otherworldly.
They describe:

• breathtaking glacier views,
• warm local culture,
• food and wine enjoyed with fellow travelers,
• and that moment when you realize: “I can’t believe I’m really here.”

• Wildlife Encounters: Condors Overhead

On their warm-up hike to Mirador de los Cóndores, the group looked up to see 10 condors soaring above the cliffs. It was a first for many in the group and a moment that made the Andes feel truly alive.

• Weather Lessons: Snow… in Summer?

A late-summer storm surprised the group during their attempted hike to Laguna de los Tres. Though conditions prevented them from reaching the viewpoint, the snowfall created a magical atmosphere—and a great reminder that the mountains always have the final say.

• The Hike That Stole the Show: Loma del Pliegue Tumbado

This became a highlight for nearly everyone.
The group climbed through fresh snow to a panoramic view of Fitz Roy, glaciers, and turquoise lakes.
Their guide admitted she underestimated the group—only to turn around and see everyone keeping up effortlessly.

• First-Time Via Ferrata Experience

This was outside the comfort zone for many travelers, but also one of the most memorable group experiences.
Carisa and Janice talk about:

• nervous excitement at the base,
• realizing the security of the harness system,
• helping a height-averse hiker navigate tricky sections,
• and finishing with a short, exhilarating zipline segment with Fitz Roy appearing perfectly on cue.

• A Bus… a Police Dog… and a Story to Tell

On the drive back to El Calafate, their bus was stopped by the local police and a K9 unit boarded.
A dog alerted on one traveler’s backpack—leading to an inspection that turned out to be completely harmless.
Equal parts stressful (for her!) and memorable for the rest of the group.

• Walking on the Perito Moreno Glacier

Originally not part of their plan, the Glacier Trek became Janice’s birthday gift from Carisa—and an instant highlight.
They describe the surreal blue ice, deep crevasses, and the thrill of standing on a glacier few people ever set foot on.

• What Adventure Travel Awakens

Both travelers reflect on:

• how adventure forces you to slow down,
• how it resets your mind,
• how it reveals what you’re capable of,
• and how friendships deepen when you face hard things together.
  For them, Patagonia wasn’t just a destination—it was a reminder of the power of saying yes.

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???? Guest Bios

Carisa

Nine-year Six-Pack of Peaks ambassador, legacy challenger, and avid international trekker. Carisa thrives on new terrain, cultural exchange, and discovering what’s around the next corner.

Janice

A lifelong outdoors enthusiast whose adventures expanded once she met her perfect travel partner. Together, they’ve tackled mountains from Mexico to Patagonia.

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???? Key Takeaways

• You don’t need to be an expert adventurer—just be willing to say yes.
• Travel with people who elevate your courage and confidence.
• Patagonia rewards those who embrace flexibility (and unexpected weather).
• Adventure travel deepens friendships in a way everyday life rarely does.
• A big group can still feel deeply connected when everyone shares a love of the mountains.

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???? Mentioned in the Episode

• El Chaltén & Fitz Roy region
• Mirador de los Cóndores
• Loma del Pliegue Tumbado
• Laguna de los Tres (conditions prevented summit)
• Via Ferrata (El Chaltén)
• Perito Moreno Glacier Trek

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???? Connect & Explore More

• Learn about upcoming Social Adventures group trips
• Join the Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge community
• Follow the podcast for new episodes exploring adventure, culture, and the people who choose exploration as a way of life