Exploring the National Parks

Get ready for a wild and informative journey to one of Utah's hidden gems! In this episode of Exploring the National Parks, we are spilling all the details on Capitol Reef National Park.  We'll share our personal experiences, from navigating the park's unique landscape to indulging in some seriously delicious pie. If you're planning a Utah road trip or simply dreaming of stunning red rock scenery, this episode is your ticket to Capitol Reef!   Join us as we discuss… Capitol Reef's location in relation to Utah's "Mighty Five" Capitol Reef's mind-bending tilted rock formations that look almost unreal The Fruita Historic District, the park's hub for history, orchards, and, of course, pie! Must-hike trails, including Hickman Bridge and Cassidy Arch Exploring Capitol Reef's wild side: Unpaved roads and backcountry adventures Why Capitol Reef deserves more than just a quick stop Details about our new Capitol Reef itinerary We hope you enjoyed exploring Capitol Reef with us! This park is an absolute must-visit – add it to your list!  If you want help planning your trip, head over to DirtInMyShoes.com and use code REEF25 for 25% off the Capitol Reef Itinerary! Your task for today: We want to know what you are most excited about for your trip to Capitol Reef. Are you captivated by Cathedral Valley? The Burr Trail? Or the unique Fruita area, where all the Utah national parks seem to converge? Head over to the Dirt In My Shoes Instagram or Facebook page and let us know! For a full summary of this episode, links to things we mentioned, and free resources/deals to get your trip-planning started, check out the full show notes. .................................... Are you hoping for an epic and stress-free national park trip? Check out these FREE resources to make trip planning a breeze! Master Reservation List – learn about the camping, lodging, and activity reservations required for every park. National Parks By Month List – see the best parks to visit during every month of the year. National Parks Checklist – track where you’ve been and where you still need to go. National Parks Packing List – pack the essentials to be confident and prepared as you explore the parks. And for more information about Capitol Reef, check out all of our Capitol Reef Podcast Episodes. ....................................

Get ready to have your mind blown by some Crater Lake National Park fun facts! Sure, it's got that insanely blue water, but this park is hiding some seriously epic secrets.  We're diving deep (pun intended!) into the crazy volcanic history of the park, sharing some jaw-dropping facts that'll make you see Crater Lake in a whole new light. Come along as we dive into the science, history, and mythology of one of America’s most stunning national parks!  Join us as we discuss: The colossal volcanic eruption that made Crater Lake one of the largest explosions the Cascades has seen in a million years  Why the eruption left such a mark on the native people that they considered the area too sacred to even look at   The massive eruption that was so large that the volcano literally lost 8,000 feet off its peak The mystery of the lake so deep, it holds the title of the deepest in the entire United States The shocking purity of Crater Lake's legendary blue water We hope you enjoyed learning all about Crater Lake National Park with us! We barely scratched the surface of this incredible park, but we hope you get a chance to get out there and see this stunning park for yourself.  For your mission today, tell us: What's calling to you most at Crater Lake? Is it the powerful story of the volcano, the crater left by Mount Mazama, or the unbelievably blue lake? Head over to the Dirt In My Shoes Facebook or Instagram page to let us know! For a full summary of this episode, links to things we mentioned, and free resources/deals to get your trip-planning started, check out the full show notes.   ....................................   Are you hoping for an epic and stress-free national park trip? Check out these FREE resources to make trip planning a breeze! Master Reservation List – learn about the camping, lodging, and activity reservations required for every park. National Parks By Month List – see the best parks to visit during every month of the year. National Parks Checklist – track where you’ve been and where you still need to go. National Parks Packing List – pack the essentials to be confident and prepared as you explore the parks.   And for more information about Crater Lake, check out these Crater Lake Podcast Episodes and Crater Lake Trip Planning Articles.   ....................................  

Afraid of bears while exploring the national parks? You’re not alone! In this episode, we are diving headfirst into the hairy topic of bears in the parks.  From close encounters to bear spray strategies, we’re tackling all your burning questions. Join us as we help you learn how to keep yourself (and your snack-sized children) safe in bear country!  Join us as we discuss: Our heart-pounding close encounters with bears, and what we did (or almost did!) to avoid becoming a bear's snack Why your voice is the best bear deterrent, and why bear bells aren’t nearly as helpful as you might think Repeat after us: "Do not run, do not run, do not run!" Why this is the ultimate survival tip, even when a baby seal is involved How to keep the furry residents of national parks healthy by mastering the art of food storage Pro tips for spotting the difference between different types of bears The surprising reason why leaving food in your car is a recipe for disaster (and a bear-y inconvenient problem) The parks to visit if you really WANT to see a bear The power of bear spray and how it can save you from a close encounter of the furry kind Our tips for navigating bear country with kids, and why keeping them close is key The dos and don’ts of using bear spray safely and effectively We hope you find these tips helpful while you’re out exploring the national parks. Trust us, the trails and the views are absolutely worth getting your black belt in bear skills.  Don’t forget your task for today! We want to hear your bear stories! Bonus points if you include a picture. Head over to the Dirt In My Shoes Facebook or Instagram page and share! For a full summary of this episode, links to things we mentioned, and free resources/deals to get your trip-planning started, check out the full show notes.

Ever looked into the heart of a volcano? In this episode of Exploring the National Parks, we are going on a journey to Crater Lake National Park, a place where the deepest blue water meets some dramatic volcanic landscapes.  We are so excited to explore this park because it has magic, whimsy, and even some romantic elements! Join us as we dive into the details, from navigating seasonal closures to finding the perfect romantic viewpoint. Tune in to hear: Our insider tips for navigating the park's tricky seasonality, including when to hit the rim drives and avoid major closures What you’ll want to know about Crater Lake Lodge and your base camp for exploring this park Why the hemlock trees at Crater Lake are Ash's absolute favorite, and where to find some gorgeous wildflowers Closures to be aware of in 2025 and 2026 The scoop on the best viewpoints, including the Watchman Overlook and the challenging but rewarding Cleetwood Cove Trail Why Phantom Ship is Ash’s favorite part of the park and where to find it The best family-friendly trail where you can spot a stunning waterfall We hope you enjoyed exploring Crater Lake with us!  This park will absolutely take your breath away. If you're planning a trip, make sure to head over to DirtInMyShoes.com and check out our Crater Lake page to stay up to date on everything going on in this park. Don’t forget your task for today! There are three main options for hikes in this park, and we want to know  which one you are most excited about. Do you want to go on the Castlecrest Trail and see 200 different types of wildflowers in one spot? Do you want to switch back down the cliffs to the lakeshore and actually be able to touch the water and go on a boat tour? Or  do you want to hike to the top of a peak? Head over to our Facebook or Instagram page and let us know! For a full summary of this episode, links to things we mentioned, and free resources/deals to get your trip-planning started, check out the full show notes.

Alright, Yellowstone fans! We're diving deep into the park we all know and love (almost as much as Ash loves scoring Savannah Bananas tickets!)  Today, we're getting into the nitty-gritty information you’ll want to know before you go. Forget the fluffy stuff; we're talking real-deal tips and sticky situations to avoid so you can make sure your trip is epic and not a total bison-traffic jam disaster. Get ready for the inside scoop on how to actually ENJOY Yellowstone, even when it's bursting with visitors, by learning: The shocking reality of Yellowstone's size and why your "quick drive" is probably a multi-hour adventure Why booking your lodging 13 months in advance is the golden ticket to staying in the park (and how to snag those glorious cancellations!) How to ditch the crowds and experience Yellowstone's magic without feeling like you're at a crowded rock concert Why timing is everything in Yellowstone, and how to avoid the "mushy" in-between seasons  An important reminder about the wildlife in this park We hope you're ready to tackle Yellowstone like a pro! If you want some additional help planning your trip to this incredible national park, then head over to DirtInMyShoes.com and check out our Yellowstone itinerary!  Your task for today: We know our community is a wealth of knowledge, so if you have any tips or advice for visiting Yellowstone that we didn’t discuss today, please share! Head over to our Facebook or Instagram pages at Dirt In My Shoes and share your wisdom with us! For a full summary of this episode, links to things we mentioned, and free resources/deals to get your trip planning started, check out the full show notes.

Join us for a flashback in time as we dive into fun facts about Petrified Forest National Park!  In this episode of Exploring the National Parks, we're going back to the desert to take you on a journey through a prehistoric world that was once a lush, tropical paradise teeming with bizarre and terrifying creatures. We’re sharing the top five surprising and fascinating facts about this ancient landscape that will completely change the way you see Petrified Forest National Park and turn it into a must-see national park for you!  Today, we’ll be discussing: The shocking difference between the Petrified Forest in the past and how it looks now Why this park is a crucial window into the dawn of the dinosaurs, thanks to its incredibly preserved Triassic-aged rocks How this national park protects one of the largest concentrations of petrified wood in the world The shocking and  massive geological unconformity at Petrified Forest The fascinating connection this park has to Route 66 We hope you enjoyed these fun facts all about Petrified Forest National Park! If you're ever in Arizona, be sure to visit and see the remnants of a prehistoric time for yourself!  Don’t forget your task for today!  Head over to our Facebook or Instagram page at Dirt In My Shoes and tell us: What are you excited about? The Triassic-aged rocks, fossils, and dinosaurs? Or are you more excited about seeing the petrified trees? Let us know!  For a full summary of this episode, links to things we mentioned, and free resources/deals to get your trip-planning started, check out the full show notes.

In this episode of Exploring the National Parks, we are exploring the beauty of Colorado's National Parks! We're sharing an epic 12-day road trip itinerary that takes you through four incredible parks: Rocky Mountain, Great Sand Dunes, Black Canyon of the Gunnison, and Mesa Verde. We'll be hitting the highlights of each park, sharing tips for planning your trip, and even throwing in a fun van life twist with a curated mixtape of Colorado-based artists. So, buckle up and get ready for an unforgettable adventure! Here’s what we will cover:  The perfect road trip route for hitting must-see parks and hidden gems Highlights of each park so you know exactly what to expect and what not to miss! The fascinating gateway towns that you can explore on your way Our best tips for maximizing your time in each park so you don't miss a single breathtaking view Important things that you’ll want to keep in mind to make the most of your trip We hope you will enjoy hearing our ultimate itinerary for these four gorgeous Colorado national parks! If you need any help planning your trip, make sure you head over to DirtInMyShoes.com and check out our park itineraries!  For your task for today, head over to the Dirt In My Shoes Facebook or Instagram page and let us know which of these Colorado parks you are most excited to explore!  For a full summary of this episode, links to things we mentioned, and free resources/deals to get your trip planning started, check out the full show notes.

Alright, buckle up friends, because we're diving headfirst into the quirky charm of Petrified Forest National Park! Let’s forget those big-name parks for a minute and talk about this hidden gem that deserves to be more than just a pit stop on your Route 66 adventure.  This is such a cool park but it is often overlooked. We're here to spill all the secrets and share why this park is absolutely worth visiting and everything that makes it so cool!  Here’s what we’ll cover: The colors of the Painted Desert and how they'll make you feel like you're in a Kung Fu movie The iconic Route 66 pullout, where you can literally stand on a piece of Americana and snap a pic with a vintage Studebaker The lowdown on Holbrook, Arizona, the ultimate Route 66 town, and why it's basically Radiator Springs in real life (plus, John's genius diner idea!) The Blue Mesa trail, where you can hike through a landscape of blue badlands and petrified wood (just watch the clock!) The secret to exploring the Jasper Forest off-the-beaten-path routes and why you need to grab a map from the visitor center Petrified Forest is a park that demands a little extra attention, but trust us, it’s worth it. There really is something for everyone at this park! And hey, if you’re feeling inspired to open that Route 66/Pulp Fiction/Cars diner, you know where to find us!  Your task for today: Tell us what you are more excited about when you go to Petrified Forest? Is it the Route 66 experience or the petrified wood? Head over to the Dirt In My Shoes Facebook or Instagram page and let us know!  For a full summary of this episode, links to things we mentioned, and free resources/deals to get your trip planning started, check out the full show notes here.

In this episode of Exploring the National Parks, we're diving deep into the top tips you need to know before you go to Glacier National Park.  Glacier is a truly stunning park, but it can be pretty overwhelming to plan a trip there. We'll walk you through everything from understanding the short season to scoring those coveted lodging reservations (hint: book early!).  Plus, we'll share our insider strategies for beating the crowds and making the most of your time in this incredible park. Here’s what we’ll cover: The tiny window of time when the park is fully open How to avoid getting stuck in the off-season with nothing to do The secret to snagging a campsite or hotel reservation Why you might need to set your alarm for 4:00 AM (and why it's worth it!) How to plan your day to avoid the busiest crowds How to  take advantage of Glacier's world-class mountain hiking trails There is so much to see and do in Glacier and we hope these tips help you get out there and make the most of your trip! If you need help, make sure to head over to DirtInMyShoes.com and check out our Glacier itinerary.  Your mission for today: Do you have any Glacier tips that we missed? We want to hear from you! Head over to the Dirt In My Shoes Facebook or Instagram page and let us know your top tips for visiting Glacier National Park.   For a full summary of this episode, links to things we mentioned, and free resources/deals to get your trip planning started, check out the full show notes here.

In this episode of Exploring the National Parks, we’re diving into some seriously cool facts about John’s favorite Utah park—Canyonlands!  This park often flies under the radar, but we’re here to convince you that it deserves just as much love as the other Utah parks—maybe even more! Sure, it’s right next to Arches, but Canyonlands has its own wild, rugged beauty that makes it absolutely unforgettable. Here’s what we’ll cover: A surprising fact about where this national park is located What makes the landscape here so unique The actual dinosaur swim tracks you can still see today Some fascinating facts about the park’s current ecosystem The unexpected group responsible for building much of the park’s infrastructure If you haven’t been to Canyonlands yet, trust us—you will want to add it to your list! And if you are planning a visit, we’ve got you covered. Head over to DirtInMyShoes.com to grab our brand-new Canyonlands Itinerary and make your trip unforgettable. Your task for today: Open Google Maps or Apple Maps, switch to satellite view, and zoom in on Canyonlands National Park. Just wait until you see that insane landscape—you won’t be disappointed! For a full summary of this episode, links to things we mentioned, and free resources/deals to get your trip planning started, check out the full show notes here.

In this episode of Exploring the National Parks, we interviewed another park ranger! Meet Kelkiyana Yazzie, the  Tribal Program Coordinator at Grand Canyon National Park and a proud member of the Navajo Nation.  Kelkiyana shares the deep cultural significance of the Grand Canyon to the tribes who have called this land home for generations. She also gives us an insider look at her role with the National Park Service, including what her job involves, the impact she makes, and so much more!  Here’s what we’ll cover: The important work Kelkiyana does at the Grand Canyon What makes Havasupai Gardens so special  The movement to restore original names in national parks The tribes native to the Grand Canyon area Kelkiyana’s favorite parts of being a Tribal Program Coordinator How she got her start as a National Park Ranger, plus her advice for aspiring rangers What makes the Grand Canyon so unique Whether Kelkiyana would support podracing in the Grand Canyon (you’ll love her answer!) The best spots in the Grand Canyon, according to a park ranger South Kaibab vs. Bright Angel Trails—a ranger’s take The number one tip for visiting the Grand Canyon We hope you enjoy this conversation with Kelkiyana as much as we did! Hearing her perspective on the Grand Canyon’s cultural and spiritual significance was truly inspiring. Your task for today: Add the Desert View Watchtower to your list of must-see stops when you visit the Grand Canyon! It’s the perfect place to experience the incredible Native American heritage woven into this iconic park. For a full summary of this episode, links to things we mentioned, and free resources/deals to get your trip planning started, check out the full show notes here.

In this episode of Exploring the National Parks, we’re mapping out the ultimate Spring Break road trip!  Get ready for a journey through five of the most stunning national parks in the West—all packed into one eight-day adventure. This road trip is filled with amazing sights to see and things to do. Join us as we share how to make it happen this spring break! Here’s what we’ll cover: Where to kick off your road trip for maximum adventure The must-see highlights of Saguaro National Park Perfect pit stops to make the drive even more memorable What makes Big Bend National Park a can't-miss destination An almost endless list of activities to enjoy on this trip What to do in Guadalupe Mountains National Park  The location of our favorite cave in the world (it’s a must-visit!) How to make the most of your time at White Sands National Park We hope you get the chance to take this road trip this spring! It will take you through five national parks in just eight days and is the perfect way to enjoy the spring weather. Don’t forget your homework for today! Tell us, which one of these five national parks is your favorite? Head over to the Dirt in My Shoes Facebook or Instagram page and let us know!  For a full summary of this episode, links to things we mentioned, and free resources/deals to get your trip planning started, check out the full show notes here.

Today, we’re taking you to a hidden gem that deserves to be in the spotlight—Canyonlands National Park!  Though it’s often overshadowed by the other national park in the area (ahem, Arches), Canyonlands is a treasure trove of breathtaking landscapes and incredible adventures. It’s John’s absolute favorite national park in Utah, and Canyonlands offers something so unique that it rises to the top of our list. Join us as we share why!  Here’s what we’ll cover: Why Canyonlands is the ultimate make-your-own-adventure park The magic of the Island In The Sky District (and why you have to see it) Trails you can’t afford to miss Views that will take your breath away (literally and figuratively!) Everything you need to know about the Schaefer Canyon Overlook The terrifying experience that turned into the coolest story ever The ultimate adventure for thrill-seekers Best spots for rock climbing enthusiasts What makes the Needles District so special Must-know tips for planning your visit We hope this episode inspires you to get out there and have your own adventure in Canyonlands National Park!  Your task for today is to head over to Dirt In My Shoes to get the BRAND-NEW CANYONLANDS ITINERARY! Yes, it’s finally here! You can get the Canyonlands Itinerary for 25% off with code CANYON25 until February 10th at midnight MST. That’s the cheapest it will ever be, so grab it at this price while you can!  For a full summary of this episode, links to things we mentioned, and free resources/deals to get your trip planning started, check out the full show notes here.

We’re heading back to Hot Springs National Park for a deep dive into its fascinating personality and rich history!  We’re so excited to share this episode because we’ve uncovered both the heart of Hot Springs and its undeniable swagger! This park has so much personality, and we can’t wait to tell you all about it. Here’s what we’ll cover: The unbelievably cool origin story of the water at Hot Springs How this unique area became a national park The ingenious system designed to cool down the thermal waters The shocking number of baths taken in 1946 alone Al Capone’s surprising connection to this park We hope this episode helps you see Hot Springs through a whole new lens—when you dig just a little deeper, there’s so much more to discover! Now it’s your turn! Are you planning a trip to Hot Springs? Are you more interested in the heart of it and soaking in the healing waters, or are you more drawn to its history and swagger? Head over to the Dirt in My Shoes Facebook or Instagram page to share your thoughts—we can’t wait to hear from you! For a full summary of this episode, links to things we mentioned, and free resources/deals to get your trip planning started, check out the full show notes here.

In this episode of Exploring the National Parks, we’re heading to Utah to dive into one of our all-time favorite destinations—Zion National Park!  We’re sharing five essential tips to help you navigate Zion like a pro and make your trip truly unforgettable. This park can be a bit tricky to explore, but don’t worry—we’ve got you covered. Tune in for must-know advice to make your Zion adventure the best it can be! Here’s what we’ll cover: Why timing is everything when visiting this park The one season you’ll want to avoid How far in advance you need to make reservations What you need to know about park shuttles before you go Why stepping out of your comfort zone at Zion is a must We hope these tips help you plan an incredible trip! If you’re as excited about Zion as we are, don’t miss our Exploring Zion National Park and Zion Fun Facts episodes for even more insights. Now, it’s your turn! If you’ve been to Zion, we’d love to hear your best tips for visiting the park. Let’s create a helpful thread for first-timers. Head over to the Dirt in My Shoes Facebook or Instagram page and share your Zion experience with us—we can’t wait to hear from you! For a full summary of this episode, links to things we mentioned, and free resources/deals to get your trip planning started, check out the full show notes here.

In this episode of Exploring the National Parks, we’re taking a deep dive into Hot Springs National Park!  As one of the most-visited national parks in the country, Hot Springs is a destination packed with history, relaxation, and unique experiences. Today, we’re uncovering everything that makes this incredible park so special, from its relaxing waters to its other unique experiences. Here’s what we’ll cover: What Hot Springs is and why it is so special  What makes this park unlike any other national park you’ll go to The breweries and snacks you can get in the park What to expect in the different bathhouses Where to try the mineral water- yes, you can actually drink it!  We hope you loved learning all about Hot Springs National Park! Don’t forget, we’ll be diving even deeper into this park in our upcoming Fun Facts episode, so make sure you tune in. And don’t forget to complete your task for the week! Which bathhouse would you choose? Or, if you’ve already been, what did you love most about your experience? Head over to the Dirt in My Shoes Facebook or Instagram page and share your experience with us! For a full summary of this episode, links to things we mentioned, and free resources/deals to get your trip planning started, check out the full show notes here.

In this episode of Exploring the National Parks, we’re celebrating a huge milestone—100 episodes! It’s also the final episode of 2024, so we’re diving into some of our favorite national park adventures from this year.  Whether you're planning next year's national park bucket list or just dreaming of your next big trip, this episode is packed with inspiration for unforgettable experiences. Here’s what we’ll cover: Our trip to Iceland and the national parks we visited while we were there The backpacking trip you can't miss and why it was one of the highlights of our year The number one most incredible thing we did this year- a jaw-dropping experience that left us speechless! Thank you so much for joining us on this journey through 100 episodes of Exploring the National Parks! We hope you loved this special episode and feel inspired to make some of these adventures your own in the coming year. And don’t forget to complete your task for the week! Have you ever won the lottery for the synchronous fireflies? If so, we want to hear all about it! head over to the Dirt in My Shoes Facebook or Instagram page and share your experience with us! For a full summary of this episode, links to things we mentioned, and free resources/deals to get your trip planning started, check out the full show notes here.

In this episode of Exploring the National Parks, we’re back with another Mail From the Trail episode!  We reached out on the Dirt In My Shoes Instagram page for your questions, and today, we’re diving into the answers. Here’s what we’ll cover: Our thoughts on the Junior Ranger programs in the national parks The best parks to visit during spring break Where to find the top trails for snowshoeing Our top tips for arrival times and making reservations at the parks The best mementos and souvenirs to pick up during your visits We hope you enjoy this Q&A episode! If you’re not already following us, head over to the Dirt in My Shoes Facebook or Instagram page and connect with us there! For a full summary of this episode, links to things we mentioned, and free resources/deals to get your trip planning started, check out the full show notes here.

Happy Thanksgiving! For this episode of Exploring the National Parks, we’re heading to Great Basin National Park to share some fun facts about this amazing place!  Great Basin is a destination where you can connect with the past and dream about the future, and we’re so excited to show you why. Join us as we explore what makes this park so incredible and its surprising connection to Pokémon—the original Pokémon, that is! Here’s what we’ll cover: The three ways that you can define Great Basin Why and how this park is twice as wide as it should be The most fascinating thing about the rain and snow in this park A crazy fact about the last remaining glacier in Nevada  The rare phenomenon that you can find in Great Basin What makes the Bristlecone Pines in this park so special A bonus fun fact about something Great Basin has that other national parks don’t We hope you enjoy this episode all about Great Basin! We want to hear from you— which Eevee evolution (or fun fact) excited you the most? Head over to the Dirt in My Shoes Facebook or Instagram page and let us know! And don’t forget, it’s Black Friday season at Dirt In My Shoes! This is the only time of year our itineraries go on sale, so if you’re planning a trip to a national park next year, this is the perfect time to snag one. Visit dirtinmyshoes.com and join our email list to be first in line when the sale begins! For a full summary of this episode, links to things we mentioned, and free resources/deals to get your trip planning started, check out the full show notes here.

It’s time for another road trip! In this episode of Exploring the National Parks, we embark on an epic 10-day winter road trip to three unforgettable national parks: Zion, Death Valley, and Joshua Tree.  If you’ve got the time, we’ve got the perfect itinerary for you, complete with bonus activities from John—for the sake of fun!  Here’s what we’ll cover: The best time of year to hit the road for this trip What to explore in Zion National Park during the winter The must-see state park you shouldn’t skip along the way Our favorite foodie stops that are perfect for refueling The coolest hike that you can’t miss on this trip Must-do activities in Death Valley Hidden gems in the Mojave Preserve Top experiences in Joshua Tree This road trip is the ideal winter escape for the whole family, offering the best of each park when they’re at their finest. We hope you get to experience it this year! And now, we want to hear from you! What’s your quirky, off-the-beaten-path family road trip stop? The one only you seem to enjoy?  Head over to the Dirt in My Shoes Facebook or Instagram page and share your favorites—we’re building a list! For a full summary of this episode, links to things we mentioned, and free resources/deals to get your trip planning started, check out the full show notes here.