Hemlocks to Hellbenders
Hemlocks to Hellbenders is an award-winnning podcast hosted by Christian Alexandersen highlighting Pennsylvania’s parks, forests and great outdoors.
Our episodes feature engaging conversations with park managers, forest rangers, scientists, educators, outdoor recreationalists, volunteers, officials and more that help you plan your next adventure in the Commonwealth's incredible parks and forests.
Podcasting since 2023 • 75 episodes
Hemlocks to Hellbenders
Latest Episodes
Feeling posh? Try one of Pennsylvania's new state park glamping sites
For a long time, there’s been this mostly unspoken rule that “real” outdoor experiences have to be rugged. You’ve got to rough it, hike ten miles in the rain, sleep on the ground and eat beans from a can — or else it somehow doesn’t count. ...
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Season 3
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Episode 22
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43:47
Nolde Forest Environmental Education Center - How one tree led to a thriving outdoor classroom
In Pennsylvania, every state park has its purpose. Allegheny Islands shows people what undeveloped islands once looked like on the river. Colton Point features stunning views of the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon. And Pine Grove Furnace highlights t...
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Season 3
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Episode 21
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32:04
Under the surface of the Keystone State with geologist Russell Losco
One of the strangest things about getting older has been the shift in my interests. Despite being intensely curious as a kid, I never cared about nature growing up. I didn’t climb trees or capture bugs or explore creeks. But as I’ve...
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Season 3
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Episode 20
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1:05:32
Salt Springs State Park - Explore ancient hemlocks, waterfalls and wildflowers in NEPA
What is it that makes a state park special? It’s a question I’ve asked my self countless times since I began exploring Pennsylvania’s public lands in 2021. For some it’s deep, meaningful history to indigenous cultures, to early sett...
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Season 3
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Episode 19
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26:53
Uncovering the battles that scarred Pennsylvania's public lands with author Brady J. Crytzer
When people think about history, especially armed conflicts, many picture dusty textbooks, old maps and long-forgotten generals. But here in Pennsylvania, history isn’t just words on a page—it’s written into the very ground beneath our feet.
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Season 3
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Episode 18
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1:06:14
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