Shawn E. Bell is an author, screenwriter, conservationist, and explorer of California's lost places based in Southern California. A native Californian and Master Tread Trainer for Tread Lightly!, he speaks publicly and writes about responsible outdoor recreation and public-lands access, and serves as a trained fire lookout in the Cleveland and San Bernardino National Forests. A lifelong car guy and overlander, Shawn seeks out the forgotten trails and vanished roads that trace California's layered human history — from Indigenous pathways to Gold Rush routes to the overgrown tracks of early adventurers. He approaches the Golden State's wild places with intellectual curiosity and a genuine sense of wonder for all who came before, while championing the stewardship of its public lands.