Lost on Purpose: Adventures of a 21st Century Mountain Man

by Patrick Taylor

“Lost on Purpose” is the non-fiction adventure narrative of a former technology executive who took leave of the Real World to reinvent himself as a 21st century mountain man. In October/November 2013, Patrick Taylor crossed the Rocky Mountains alone on foot. He passed through one of the largest wilderness areas in the Lower 48 to reach and retrace the route of Lewis & Clark in the winter. The sacrifices – vocationally, financially, emotionally – are measured against the benefits by the author in a refreshingly honest, humorous, and inspirational fashion. It is the first book in a 3-part series on the 21st Century Mountain Man.
See: https://www.facebook.com/thetexasyeti...
"I spent my adult life pursuing all types of adventure all over the world; shark-diving in Burma, caving in Borneo, alpine adventures on big rock and ice, and 'social adventure'​, too. It started in the Marine Corps, blossomed in the international oilfield scene, and matured in the mountains on long solo treks.
I crossed the Rocky Mountains alone on foot in the winter of 2013. I spent the next two years immersed in the mountain man way-of-life. I became a stockman and backcountry packer, and learned to leverage my alpine experience to become a self-sufficient trapper. I spent the winter of 2016 alone in an old cabin in the the Frank Church Wilderness, and finished the adventure in early March by walking 33 miles up & over the mountains with nothing more than a tarp, a sleeping bag, and a few bags of instant oatmeal.
Leaving my business life behind, I have committed to a life of adventure. I have become an author of non-fiction adventure books. I share my adventures hoping to inspire my peers to challenge themselves and embrace adventure in their lives, too."

Patrick Taylor
'The Texas Yeti'
taylor@thetexasyeti.com

Genres: Adventure, Travel, Nonfiction, Audiobook, Memoir, Outdoors, Biography

191 pages, Kindle Edition

First published November 8, 2015

About the author

Patrick Taylor is an adventurer, author, & world traveler. In his late 50s, he solo'ed Lewis & Clark's route across the Rocky Mountains in winter & his published journal became a Kindle #1 Bestseller in four catergories (Adventure Travel, Solo Travel, Mountaineering, & Extreme Sports). It was the first book of the 'Real-life Adventures of the Texas Yeti'; a unique collection of non-fiction adventures blazing 11 Kindle #1 Bestsellers across 6 Amazon categories... every book spending time as #1 Bestseller in Solo Travel. Each of his off-beat adventures is unique; the antipode of Walter Mitty, Taylor actually lives the lives he imagines.

In a world where 'action movies' are faked entirely on green screens & 'reality shows' contort the truth, the 'Real-life Adventures of the Texas Yeti' are refreshingly authentic, entertaining, & inspiring. Pat Taylor's atypical adventures are underdog bestsellers & trending to a wider audience... his books inspire readers to embrace adventure in their lives.

Reviews

[Sarah B · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Well Described Real Adventure in the Mountains

So reading this was very fascinating. I do a lot of walking and I go hiking in the city parks here (and we even have some steep trails that go up + down) but we sure don't have any mountains... In fact I have never seen a mountain as there are none in the Midwest. And to make things clear this is not fiction - the author truly went on this adventure: seven weeks out in the wilderness following the path of Lewis and Clark. In October and November! He was camping when there was snow on the ground. That really boggles my mind. How can you sleep in a tent when its so cold outside?

One of the first things I wanted to know was what was he going to use for food. At the beginning of the book - where he had very carefully planned his trip (and he had done many of these trips before) he did some complicated math to know how much he needed a day. Calories I mean. But food is mighty heavy. Did you ever notice? And he wanted the most bang for the ounce. So I was very curious to see what he was going to take with him. Some of his choices surprised me. Like the oatmeal. Or the tea. I love tea but I also read if you drink it in the same time you eat certain foods it can have an affect on if you absorb the nutrients or not. Especially for iron. So I do wonder if that affected him at all? In fact what was his iron source?? Or copper. You can't absorb iron without copper. Hmmmm.... I will have to think about that.

But I just loved how he describes all the stuff he sees. The mountains, trees, rivers, the few animals that cross his path. There were these weird birds that made loud sounds as they came on to land. The writing is so vivid you feel that you are almost out there too... And all of his thoughts are in here too. He said that when he first went into the woods how his brain was all cluttered with tons of thoughts. But the longer he stayed out there the calmer he grew.

Now there is some excitement in here too. He had done a few dumb, risky things too. Like his desire to see this one area got the better of him and it was just awful. Almost a horrid trap. Plus to get there he was practically sliding down some major steep slope of a mountain.. I have seen a few really steep trails here and I can kind of imagine what he means (but it sure doesn't have the height of his). But no way I would want to risk that but I have climbed up a few really steep trails but only in dry weather.

The story is in first person. Very vivid writing.

He meets a few people and various critters along the way. Its a true adventure. Out in one of America's few remaining untamed wilderness areas. He was crossing ridges, going in places that had no trail and was fording swift rivers barefoot in freezing temperatures (hoping he wouldn't fall into the water with his heavy 60 pound pack).

And why you ask? Because he wanted the challenge. To enter a true wilderness. Where you don't really know what is up ahead (but you do have Google maps but it doesn't show everything). And he wanted to follow Lewis and Clark.

He says in here by talking about a thing you make it real. You manifest it... And that may actually be the wisest thing in the whole book.

And if you decide to go hiking or go visit one of the National parks please remember to take an Emergency Locator Beacon with you. It can save your life. He mentions his throughout the book. He also states that if you get stuck in a bad spot remember it will take them longer to reach you.

[kitty Burke · Rating 5 out of 5]

We met Pat at a remote ranch airstrip (the B bar C). He invited us in and shared a cup of coffee with us and his friend (I don’t remember her name). It was as if we were sitting around a campfire; Pat showed genuine interest in us and “our story”. As we left that unexpected blessing, Pat signed and gave us a copy of his book Lost on Purpose. We have thoroughly enjoyed journeying with him as we read the book. You will enjoy it. I hope we have a chance to have a or up of joe with Pat and his friend. Mark and Kitty

[Diana · Rating 4 out of 5]

Absolutely adored this book. My edition did not have any pesky problems regarding editing or grammar, so I was able to really concentrate on Mr. Taylor's amazing adventure! If you liked "A Walk In The Woods" or"Wild", you will love this book. My only negative comment is that the Kindle edition had no photos or maps, and I think that would help a reader as they follow along this life-changing adventure.

[Bookworm939 · Rating 2 out of 5]

Eh. Journal rather than a story. Him trekking/following Lewis and Clark trail across the Bitterroot mountains intrigued me , interesting in the beginning … then slowly fizzled out … Then wait for it … wait for it .. anti-climatic end … finally ending the story by describing how he got a job???? (Totally unnecessary - took the adventure right out of the whole “book”) interesting story … needs a little help with editing.

[NicholeReadsWithCats · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this! True story of a man's two month journey across the Lewis and Clark trail in cold, snowy weather. Beautiful, interesting and inspirational!

[Alyana · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is an exhilarating non-fiction adventure that chronicles the author's journey as he reinvents himself as a modern-day mountain man. The book details his solo trek across the Rocky Mountains in the winter of 2013, following the historic route of Lewis & Clark.

What I loved was Taylor's experiences are raw and genuine, offering a refreshing break from the typical adventure narratives. The author's detailed accounts of the wilderness, from the majestic mountains to the swift rivers, make you feel like you're right there with him.

The book isn't just about physical challenges; it's also about the emotional and mental transformation Taylor undergoes during his journey.

Overall, Lost on Purpose is a captivating read for anyone who loves adventure and the great outdoors. Taylor's story is both inspiring and entertaining, making it a must-read for those seeking a true wilderness experience.

[Staci · Rating 3 out of 5]

Memoir about leaving the business world for a solo trek in the Idaho mountains following the trail of Lewis and Clark.

[Scott J Lane · Rating 3 out of 5]

I picked this up after reading several lost in the woods books. The biggest take away I got with this one was how arrogant the author is. I tired of hearing about how accomplished, how fit, how talented he is. It went on and on.
I would have enjoyed the story a lot more if it had been written as an adventure and not as a brag book.

[DeWayne Neel · Rating 4 out of 5]

A tale of an extreme trekker who attacks the route of the Lewis and Clark Trail during the winter. Something not done since the early explorers did it and all this just for fun. Pat Taylor describes his prep and the day-to-day route while the dangers increased. If you like the thrill of the unknown trail, this is up your line. A good read by a crazy man!

[Maria Cayelli · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting story. I enjoyed this.

[Stuart B · Rating 3 out of 5]

Down to earth telling of one man’s adventure through the Rockies following Lewis and Clark’s route.

No wishy washy spiritual findings and no overly dramatic scenes. It’s just a nice easy listen.

[Doug · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved this book! Pat Taylor does a really good job of describing the experiences and scenery encountered on his journey to retrace portions of the Lewis and Clark trek through the Rocky Mountains of Montana and Idaho. At times I could really envision the landscapes he was describing, and feel as if I were there too!

In a bigger sense, it serves as a reminder to slow down and develop an awareness to your environment. Take the challenges and blessings as they come, and be present in each moment so that you can appreciate what lies before you. There is a beauty and simplicity in this book that is very refreshing, especially given the fast pace of our world.

I can say that after the first 50 pages (or so), I went ahead and ordered Alone on Purpose and River Hippies & Mountain Men and am looking forward to learning more about his adventures in the wilderness!

[Jamie O'Brien · Rating 2 out of 5]

Pretty meandering and the author becomes increasingly intolerable as the adventure moves along. Also riddled with typographical errors - the author could really have used an editor or at least someone who read his manuscript before sending it off to get published.

[Shane · Rating 2 out of 5]

A map and some pictures would be nice.

[Natasha · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐- (Rating System Below)

“Lost on Purpose” is a solid pick for fans of non-fiction outdoor adventure stories. Patrick Taylor shares his journey of leaving corporate life behind to cross the Rocky Mountains alone, blending raw honesty with humor as he reflects on the sacrifices and rewards of living like a modern mountain man. The audiobook is an easy listen, with Taylor’s storytelling focusing more on the experience itself and the people he encounters than on technical survival details or deep introspection.

While the book doesn’t dive too deeply into the nitty-gritty of his wilderness skills, it captures the heart of the adventure. Taylor’s descriptions of the landscape and the challenges he faces are vivid enough to transport you to the mountains alongside him. There’s something inspiring about his willingness to walk away from the comfort of modern life and embrace the unknown, even when it means living off oatmeal and facing brutal winter conditions.

Overall, this is a great listen if you’re craving a straightforward, no-frills adventure story. Taylor’s voice is relatable, and his passion for the wild is contagious. It may not be the most detailed survival book out there, but it’s a refreshing reminder that sometimes, getting a little lost on purpose can be the most meaningful way to find yourself.

Get it at…

📗 - Hard Copy -📗
Your Local Canadian Book Seller
Indigo - (Not Available at Time of Review
Amazon Canada

📱 - Digital - 📱
Kobo - (Not Available at Time of Review)
Kindle

🎧 - Audio - 🎧
Audible
Libro.FM
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*Star Rating Guide*
⭐ - The writing style didn’t appeal to me. The characters didn’t resonate with me. I pushed myself to the limit to avoid DNF’ing. I wouldn’t suggest this book to anyone I’m acquainted with.
⭐⭐ - The book was passable, but it won’t stick in my mind. Although I didn’t abandon the book, my mind wasn’t fully immersed in the story. I discovered that it was easy for me to stop reading it and not feel compelled to continue promptly. When everything was said and done, I was unsure of my immediate opinion on this book.
⭐⭐⭐ - If someone is actively seeking a book in this general premise, I would suggest this. While it was good, I don’t think I’ll ever pick up this book for a second read. If it were part of a series, I’d probably venture into the next book. Reading it was time well-spent.
⭐⭐⭐⭐ - This book was brilliant. I had the urge to keep reading and turn to the next page. The book stayed on my mind for days after I finished it. I highly recommend this book to everyone.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ - I was actively engaged in wanting to finish reading this book. My thoughts are consumed by this book after completing it. I want to have a physical copy as a trophy that I can display on my shelf. I felt a strong connection and investment while reading this book, would definitely recommend.

[Linda Martin · Rating 5 out of 5]

There's nothing quite so helpful as an extreme challenge for clearing one's mind after a stressful passage in life. It lessens the impact of painful memories by forcing a person into survival mode. Was that why the author of this book decided to cross the Bitterroot Mountains in November? Now, that's not technically winter, but it is pretty close, and in North Idaho there's bound to be snow in November, usually, especially in the mountains.

I used to live in an apartment in North Idaho. I was on the third floor and my morning desk faced a window with a nice view of the Bitterroot Mountains. While I was enjoying the view, Patrick Taylor (the author) was hiking through those mountains on a grand adventure worthy of writing a book about.

He started his trek in Montana just west of Hamilton, in Blodgett Canyon. There were a lot of places in this memoir I'd never heard of before so I had fun looking on Google Maps for the locations he traveled through, or camped at. I'm always interested in locations and settings in books, fiction or nonfiction.

Patrick Taylor's main interest in this area was historical. He seemed to be slightly obsessed with the travels of Lewis and Clark. They also crossed these mountains late in the year. Patrick wanted to replicate their experience and follow their trail.

When I was young we called this kind of thing "hiking" or "backpacking" but now the word used is "trekking" especially in extreme situations. I had to look up this word on Google to understand it better. Here's a definition from the World Expeditions website: "Trek: A trek is used to define a walk or hike which tends to be multi-day, remote, little in the form of accommodation (generally camp-based) with trails that are either partially visible or not visible at all and where altitude or other rugged terrain and crossings may be encountered." Back in the day, I called that "backpacking" but let's face it, "trekking" sounds cooler. So be it.

I'm glad I listened to this audiobook. The reader made author Patrick sound a bit too self-confident bordering on arrogance at the beginning of the book. But as it went on there were some very interesting experiences and excessive self-confidence was lost along the way.

I would have liked to hear some reliance on God, but that was not what this memoir was about. I personally would have been praying a lot. Being alone in the wilderness was never a favorite adventure for me.

Cleanliness factor: almost 100% but there was one f-word at the end uttered by someone he met along the way, and dutifully recorded by the author. However, it did not detract from my enjoyment of this book.

[Firsh · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked the first half a lot, or until he met Trapper Joe. Then the introspective story turned into conversational, the weather turned bad, and I lost track and/or interest. I went on a solo hike while listening to this and that then turned into grocery shopping by the time I finished, so it could be that I just paid a bit less attention. But in the first part, the adventure was set up so that he didn't meet anyone, and I quite enjoyed the solitude and how that works. But I think the journey should have ended with Trapper Joe with a bowtie on top :D

There is a gaping chasm in activity levels between people that never get off the sofa and hikers like him (and ultrarunners, Tour de France cyclists, Ironman (men?), etc). I, for myself, move everyday but I couldn't (better world: purposefully would not) do multi-day (month) hikes like this. But technically I could go off the grid but I need my bed, the hot shower. I can appreciate them pretty well without having to forgo them.

One thing that was interesting and I didn't understand why it had to be done, was selling his belongings. I mean what does going off grid for "just" 2 months have to do with that? Don't you want to return or something? I'd just leave them with a property manager. Ok, it was symbolic, sure. But if I were to empty my home of useless stuff, I'd do it regardless of me wanting to go on a long walk like this.

Anyway, I enjoyed listening to his story, so I didn't have to be there physically, so I appreciate that he told it this way. But in all seriousness I'd rather experience a lite version of it myself in the way of repeated solo day hikes and that's it. No matter how fascinating these first person tellings of adventures are, it's through someone else's eyes obviously. Perhaps some photos would have spiced it up, in the printed version I hope there are some, for those that read with eyes. Edit: I found the pictures.

What I'm trying to say is that I doubt I'll continue with the series, as I prefer to live the adventures my own (to these kind of people, laughable, to couch potatoes, impressive) ways.

[Stephen · Rating 3 out of 5]

Lost on Purpose is the account of one man, Patrick Taylor’s, attempt to follow the trail of Lewis and Clark over the Rockies. He chose to do this during the same season as the Corps of Discovery, despite knowing this meant he would be climbing as winter’s first snowstorms moved in. The scope of this ambition impressed, appalled, and bewildered the Idahoans Taylor met — though they were mostly impressed. The account is highly and constantly detailed, Taylor sharing with readers how he whittles little stacks to pen a fish in place so that he can grill it properly, or describing the various layers he was wearing. There are some readers who are drawn to that kind of detail, of course, but if you’re looking more for Ed-Abbey style descriptions of the landscape, be warned there’s more mention of not just the trees than the forest, but the pine needles and the bark. Taylor also incorporates excerpts from Lewis and Clark’s journals, which indicate that much of this unforgiving landscape is as it was two centuries ago. The sheer ambition of Taylor, makes the details slog worthwhile, as he describes making his way up the mountains, losing the trail as a blizzard moves in, and — undoubtedly the book’s highlight — relives with the reader his few days spent with a trapper, a kindred spirit who lived by himself most of the time and spent his nights skinning pine martens. After two months of wilderness trekking, Taylor uses his emergency comms to have himself picked up, but his feat suitably impressed a local enough that Taylor was hired on to take care of a remote property during the winter months. (One hopes it wasn’t The Overlook hotel.)

[Les French · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you have a bit of adventure wanderlust in your soul you will enjoy this read.

I'm not sure I've ever given 5 stars to a book but I hesitated on whether or not to tag 5 to this book. Truthfully, to me, it gets a bit mystical at times but not boring as much as detailed. I guess being alone in the bush for 7 or 8 weeks might do that to you. I have an adult daughter that spent a couple of weeks hiking the Grand Canyon rim solo. She did not see or speak to anybody for 8 of those days. I got to thinking about my travel adventures in Mexico and Central America and cannot remember one day that I didn't see or speak to someone. In my 74 years there's not a day I had with that kind of solitude.
That being said kudos to Mr. Taylor's "Mountain Man Adventure ". I thought I had " been there, done that" but I guess not.
If you have that bit of wanderlust in your world, whether you've treked or not, do yourself a favor and read "Lost On Purpose". You'll be glad you did. Heck, you might grab a walking stick and take a stab at it.
Be safe out there.

[Benedict · Rating 2 out of 5]

In his 50s, tech executive Patrick Taylor took himself on a solo trek across the Rocky Mountains, wanting to emulate the Lewis and Clark Expedition. He goes by himself in October to November, and this is his account of the trip.

So I've listened to a few "hiking through the wilderness to find yourself" stories and enjoyed them, but this one rubbed me the wrong way. This is going to be hard to explain... but I feel if you could take any passage from the book out of context and asked me where he was from, I'd say American. He has a level of self-confidence that seems too assured, an attitude you can only get from being told you live in the best country on Earth your entire life. In his defense, he is experienced and goes well-prepared, but he also chooses do the trip out-of-season despite advice not to do so (and then is shocked when a ranger post he relies on is unmanned when he arrives). He is enamoured with Lewis and Clark and having a boys-own adventure, with no real acknowledgement that he's doing something very foolhardy, and he's lucky he didn't get into trouble.

I know that's seems a very superficial and dumb thing to be stuck on, but the attitude that borders on arrogance is so pervasive I really couldn't get past it. One for the yanks, maybe.

[Debbie Tremel · Rating 4 out of 5]

The title is a little misleading since there was really no intent to allow lostness in this adventure. Taylor set out with a very clear plan, using the Lewis and Clark historic trip as his template, maps, gps, etc. but it was a grand adventure none the less. His trek took courage, skill and perseverance in an environment few would attempt. The story not only journals his physical journey and challenges, but also addresses the psychological and spiritual aspects of this solo trek. It's a good story with some interesting and unexpected human encounters- sadly don't know that there really is a true wildness left in the lower 48. Would love to hear of him truly entering the wilderness without destination, allowing true "lostness" but not many are drawn to a huge wander. In the e-book format I so would have loved to see some of his photos of the trek or maps- that would have gotten that last star out of me!

[Christy Keeler · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a trail journal.

Though I enjoyed hearing about the trail, I never could understand why he traveled so late in the winter. Lewis and Clark did the Bitterroots in early September so if his plan was to follow in their footsteps, it seemed he should have been on the Lolo trail earlier in the year. Yes, they faced frostbite and miserable conditions, but it seems that an earlier departure for Taylor may have been a wiser choice—especially since they did it in a group and he was solo. Though he may feel safe solo hiking in the winter in the wild, I feel this is unwise because it potentially puts rescue personnel in danger if having to rescue the trekker.

That said, I really enjoyed reading about his progress when off-trail. Three miles per day while off-trail, in deep snow, and having to route-find is an impressive feat. I also enjoyed learning more about the Lewis and Clark Expedition in the Bitterroots.

[Peter Hendrycks · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have led a pretty adventurous life by my own standards, but what Pat did took some balls for sure! The way he described his conundrum at Doubt creek made me cringe. I imagine he looks back on it and was happy he took the route he did, instead of taking the road, but man, I could feel his pain while bushwhacking in the snow! I liked he met up with Trapper Joe. Life is a strange beast, but Joe was just what Pat needed. Good solid advice, a packed trail, and cheetos and root beer! One thing I dont think I could have done was Pats diet while on the trail, though. Eating the same spartan fare for 7 weeks would have made me nuts. I salute him for his accomplishments, and his ability to write about it afterwards! This story makes me respect what Lewis and Clark went through, on their Voyage of Discovery! I will read more of his books!

[Eli · Rating 4 out of 5]

Can a book be written about getting lost in the woods on purpose and keep your attention? Well, yes. Patrick Taylor writes about his trek across the Rockies tracing the Lewis and Clark expedition. Having read the Journals of Lewis and Clark not long ago I was intrigued. It takes a lot of courage to go alone into the wilderness. It is written to inspire others to go on an adventure.
While I am not brave enough to hike across the Rockies days on end it did help my husband and I to hike the local State Park trails. We made wonderful memories and in return , both us and our dog, lost weight!

[Lisa B · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book
Again enough detail to give me the picture but not overwhelmed
I did the think the ending was cut short but perhaps that is what happens when you go to plan b on such an adventure
I would have liked him to talk more about that plan n decision but a page a or two and he moves on. And again given the magnitude of the decision what more could he say

I may read another of his book
The description of the Lewis and Clark trail was intriguing
Hard to imagine that such wilderness exists in Aland populated with macadam shopping and housing developments

[Heidi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lost on Purpose: Adventures of a 21st Century Mountain Man by Patrick Taylor audiobook 5 hours @ 1.2 speed 4/5
I was looking for nonfiction on Audible. I want to participate in #nonfictionnovember Partly because I haven't done much nonfiction reading this year. This was a nice short listen. About Patrick trekking the trail of Lewis and Clark in winter. It was a book that held my interest as hearing about the adventure, I wanted to just listen to one more chapter. So I finished it quite quickly.

[Mindy West · Rating 4 out of 5]

From the moment the author steps onto the wilderness trail where he is looking for new meaning in his life, it is easy to go along for the hike. Taylor's descriptions of the scenery around him, the weather conditions and the people he meets have a powerful pull on the reader to join him on this adventure. There were some pleasant surprises and I thought for sure (spoiler) there would be a few disasters, but it was all just a delightful and real account of one man's mid-life journey to define his future.

[john a allison · Rating 5 out of 5]

A top 10 for sure !!!

I have no idea why i have not heard of this book, as this is all I read. This will go down as one of my all time favorites. Also, I read the entire book in half a day, which I never do. For me it was a combination of The Kindness of Strangers, Into the Wild, and Travels Across America. If I could give it 10 stars i would. Good news is there are 2 more by Mr. Taylor, which I am getting ready to download now. Do yourself a favor and enjoy this book.

[Rose Kronsperger · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read

Enjoyed this book a lot. I especially enjoyed his description of his struggles when he lost the trail and had to bushwack thru the primal forest. His dogged determination in a really difficult situation and his steadfast desire to follow Lewis & Clark's trail as closely as possible without taking the easier alternative was inspiring. His writing is easy and very readable. I found myself laughing out loud at times. Very enjoyable read.

[Mike Harmon · Rating 2 out of 5]

So the guy hikes the Motorway. Runs into a trapper and develops a man crush. The trapper then uses a snow machine to flatten the trail for the guy. When the guy finally goes off trail...it's a total debacle. He craps out and uses an emergency phone to try and get hauled off the highway. Yeah, it was an "adventure" and camping in the backcountry in that weather ain't a trip to the beach, but come on.