Exploring the National Parks

In this episode of Exploring the National Parks, we’re back in the deep, dark underworld of Mammoth Cave, but this time, we’re getting a little nerdy with our five favorite fun facts!  We're diving into the many layers of this incredible park to discuss some of its most fascinating secrets, from its geological origins to its rich human history. Join us as we get super excited about science, chat a little bit about Lord of the Rings, and share five mind-blowing things you never knew about this amazing national park. Join us as we discuss... Why Mammoth Cave is a true "behemoth" in the world of caves, dwarfing its closest competition by a monumental margin The five distinct levels of passageways in this fascinating park The unexpected truth about the name of this massive national park  The inspiring story of the legendary explorers who guided people through the cave and what they did to earn their freedom The exact moment Mammoth Cave became the longest cave system in the world We hope we've convinced you that Mammoth Cave is much more than a bunch of empty tunnels. Make sure to put it on your National Park bucket list!  Your task for today: Head over to the Dirt in My Shoes Facebook or Instagram pages, and let us know what you think! What are you most excited about when it comes to this park? We'd love to hear from you! For a full summary of this episode, links to things we mentioned, and free resources and deals to get your trip-planning started, check out the full show notes. Getting ready for a trip to Mammoth Cave, or another national park? Check out our free resources, including more podcast episodes, a master reservation list, a national park checklist, and a trip packing list to keep your trip planning stress-free! Mammoth Cave Podcast Episodes Mammoth Cave Free Resources  Master Reservation List National Park Checklist National Park Trip Packing List

In this episode of Exploring the National Parks, we're taking you on a trip report of our summer research journey to Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks! Join us as we share our honest and hilarious lessons learned, from the shockingly subpar lodging to some serious, heart-stopping experiences with rivers, falling trees, and even a rogue bear. Get ready for a dose of reality and a whole lot of fun as we help you navigate Sequoia Kings! Join us as we discuss... Why the lodges in Sequoia Kings are all about location, location, location, and not much else The heartbreaking reality of the 2021 fire and the lessons we learned about the importance of natural fire cycles The terrifying moment that reminded us why you need to be extra careful around water The way that we learned how “widow maker” trees got their name Why we were completely unprepared for our hilariously disastrous boat ride on Hume Lake The insane, reality TV-worthy spectacle we witnessed right in front of us If you’re planning your first or your next trip to Sequoia Kings, we hope these lessons will help you have a smooth and unforgettable trip!  If you have any of your own stories to share about Sequoia Kings, be sure to head over to the Dirt in My Shoes Facebook or Instagram pages and let us know! For a full summary of this episode, links to things we mentioned, and free resources and deals to get your trip-planning started, check out the full show notes. Getting ready for a trip to Sequoia Kings, or another national park? Check out our free resources, including more podcast episodes, a master reservation list, a national park checklist, and a trip packing list to keep your trip planning stress-free! Sequoia Kings Podcast Episodes Sequoia Kings Free Resources  Master Reservation List National Park Checklist National Park Trip Packing List

In this episode of Exploring the National Parks, we’re going on a journey deep underground to Mammoth Cave National Park!  Get ready to explore the world's longest cave system, but be prepared to adjust your expectations as we explain why this cave is more about its sheer size and history than dazzling rock formations. We’re sharing our favorite tours, including one that might feel a little too familiar to Lord of the Rings fans, as well as our hilarious mishaps while navigating tight spots and low ceilings. Join us as we discuss... Why Mammoth Cave's "subway tunnels" and vast size are more impressive than traditional cave decorations The importance of booking your cave tour reservations in advance to avoid disappointment Our top tour recommendations for first-time visitors, including the "Historic Extended" and "Domes and Dripstones" tours John's hilarious struggles with low ceilings and narrow passageways in sections like "Fat Man's Misery" and "Tall Man's Agony" The fascinating history of Mammoth Cave, including its use as a tuberculosis ward and the role of enslaved African-Americans as early tour guides. Whether you're a seasoned caving pro or just curious about what lies beneath the surface, we hope these tips will have you ready to explore this spectacular underground world. Just be sure to check how tall you are before you go!  Today’s task: Would you prefer to take a tour to learn about the human history of Mammoth Cave, or are you more interested in learning about the domes and dripstones? 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 and deals to get your trip-planning started, check out the full show notes. Getting ready for a trip to Mammoth Cave, or another national park? Check out our free resources, including more podcast episodes, a master reservation list, a national park checklist, and a trip packing list to keep your trip planning stress-free! Mammoth Cave Podcast Episodes Mammoth Cave Free Resources  Master Reservation List National Park Checklist National Park Trip Packing List

In this episode of Exploring the National Parks, we are exploring the incredible Native American sites you can visit through the National Park Service.  From massive cliff dwellings to life-sized petroglyphs, we’re diving into some of our favorite places to experience the deep history and cultural richness of the ancestral Puebloan people and beyond. Whether you’ve visited before or are looking to expand your bucket list, this episode is packed with inspiration to help you connect with these sacred, awe-inspiring sites across the Southwest. Join us as we discuss… The remote Canyonlands trail that leads to some of the largest, most mysterious rock art in North America A cliffside city frozen in time, and the tours that take you right into it The hidden New Mexico site where ladders lead to ancient carved homes in the cliffs The massive ruins of a forgotten cultural hub that rival anything else in the Southwest We hope you enjoyed exploring some of the most meaningful Native American sites the National Park Service helps protect. These places are truly amazing, and we hope you get to get out there and explore yourself!  Today’s task: If you've been to any of these places or have one to recommend, we’d love to hear from you! Share your experiences over on our share them on the Dirt In My Shoes Facebook or Instagram pages, and let’s build a community list of must-see stops!  Are you looking for more Native American cultural sites protected by the National Park Service? Check out their comprehensive list here! For a full summary of this episode, links to things we mentioned, and free resources and deals to get your trip-planning started, check out the full show notes. Getting ready for a trip to Mesa Verde, Canyonlands, or another national park? Check out our free resources, including more podcast episodes, a master reservation list, a national park checklist, and a trip packing list to keep your trip planning stress-free! Mesa Verde Podcast Episodes Canyonlands Free Resources  Master Reservation List National Park Checklist National Park Trip Packing List

In this episode of Exploring the National Parks, we delve into the stunning and mysterious Bryce Canyon National Park. Join us as we discuss 5 fascinating, fun facts about Bryce Canyon.  We’ll talk about everything from quirky hoodoo legends to unexpected geology revelations that might just blow your mind.  If you've ever stood at the rim and wondered how those spiky rock towers came to be (or if they’re secretly watching you), this episode is for you. Grab your hiking boots and a sense of curiosity because we’re diving deep into the awe and wonder of this incredible landscape!  Join us as we discuss… Why Bryce Canyon holds the largest concentration of hoodoos on Earth—and what exactly a "hoodoo" is! A shocking discovery that challenges everything we thought we knew about how hoodoos form The rare “Goldilocks Zone” conditions that make Bryce Canyon one-of-a-kind in the world of geology How Bryce Canyon fits into the Grand Staircase and how you can literally see millions of years of Earth’s history from the rim A legendary tale from the Paiute people that gives Bryce Canyon its unforgettable spiritual vibe We hope you enjoyed diving into the magic and mystery of Bryce Canyon National Park! Awe is such a deeply human response to this landscape, and we hope you get the chance to experience it for yourself. Your task for today? Look for the faces in the hoodoos, embrace the wonder and the eerie mystery of this place, and let that sense of awe take your visit to the next level! If you have photos of the faces, share them on the Dirt In My Shoes Facebook or Instagram pages! For a full summary of this episode, links to things we mentioned, and free resources and deals to get your trip-planning started, check out the full show notes. Getting ready for a trip to Bryce Canyon or another national park? Check out our free resources, including more podcast episodes, a master reservation list, a national park checklist, and a trip packing list to keep your trip planning stress-free! Bryce Canyon Podcast Episodes Bryce Canyon Free Resources  Master Reservation List National Park Checklist National Park Trip Packing List

In this episode of Exploring the National Parks, we're diving into a topic near and dear to many parents' hearts: finding the perfect national park for your teenagers!  We're sharing our top picks and strategies for turning those eye-rolls into awe-some moments and  Instagram-worthy adventures on epic trails. If you're looking to spark a love for the outdoors in your teens, this episode is packed with our insights and recommendations! Join us as we discuss… Why teens can actually be the perfect national park partners What truly makes a national park "teen-approved" like epic adventures and Instagrammable moments Why we consider parks like Zion, Mammoth Cave, and Grand Canyon to be prime destinations for an unforgettable teen adventure How to pick the national park that best suits your teenager's personality and interests The experiences Denali and North Cascades offer, from wildlife spotting to landscapes that will grab their attention Our tips for "warming up" teenagers to outdoor recreation, even if they're hesitant at first Why this list offers fresh ideas beyond the usual suspects and focuses on parks that will resonate with teenagers We hope this episode gives you plenty of ideas for your next national park adventure with your teens! Remember, the goal is to create memorable experiences that foster a love for the outdoors.  Today’s Task: If you've taken your teenagers to a park they've raved about, we'd love to hear about it! Head over to the Dirt In My Shoes Facebook or Instagram pages and chime in on our post. For a full summary of this episode, links to things we mentioned, and free resources and deals to get your trip-planning started, check out the full show notes. Getting ready for a trip to Zion, Denali, or another national park? Check out our free resources, including more podcast episodes, a master reservation list, a national park checklist, and a trip packing list to keep your trip planning stress-free! Zion Podcast Episodes Denali Free Resources  Master Reservation List National Park Checklist National Park Trip Packing List

In this episode of Exploring the National Parks, we are diving into our most visited Utah park – Bryce Canyon National Park!  Get ready to discover why this smaller park packs a massive punch with its otherworldly hoodoo formations. Tune in to hear our own stories in this amazing park, tips for avoiding crowds, and why even a short visit to Bryce Canyon will leave you spellbound. Join us as we discuss… Why Bryce Canyon is our most visited Utah park, and the unique charm that keeps us coming back for more The stunning, otherworldly hoodoo formations and the Native American legends behind these incredible rock pillars The best way to experience the main amphitheater, including must-do hikes like the Queen's Garden Trail with its cool tunnels and famous "Queen Victoria" hoodoo Our favorite viewpoints like Sunrise Point, home to our beloved "octopus tree," and Sunset Point, where you can spot Thor's Hammer and the impressive Wall Street Tips for visiting, including why commuting to Bryce Canyon is a bad idea due to limited parking, and how our itinerary can help How you can explore Bryce Canyon year-round, even in the winter, and which trails are safest when icy We hope you're as excited about Bryce Canyon as we are! It's a truly unique park that offers incredible experiences, whether you have a few hours or a couple of days. You’re going to  feel the magic with this park, regardless of how much time you're able to spend there. Don't forget to check out our Bryce Canyon itinerary at DirtInMyShoes.com to make your trip planning easy!  Your task for today: We want to know: which Bryce Canyon amphitheater view are you most excited to see – the close-up hoodoos from Sunrise or Sunset Point, or the bird's-eye view from Bryce Point? Let us know on the Dirt In My Shoes Facebook or Instagram page! For a full summary of this episode, links to things we mentioned, and free resources and 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 Bryce Canyon National Park, check out all of our Bryce Canyon podcast episodes! ....................................

In this episode of Exploring the National Parks, we're spotlighting a gem that's easy to miss: Walnut Canyon National Monument.  We’re here to tell you why you should definitely add this spot to your itinerary, especially if you're cruising between the Grand Canyon and Petrified Forest. It's small, it's packed with history, and it's got some seriously cool cliff dwellings!  Join us as we discuss… Why this small park is the perfect pit stop for a dose of ancient history The epic 60-million-year story of how Walnut Creek carved this canyon (Spoiler: it involves a lot of time and a little bit of water) Who the Sinagua people were and why they're different from other ancestral Puebloans in the Southwest  What you can do in this small but mighty park Why this monument has opening and closing hours (it's not just to be annoying, we promise!) We hope you're ready to add Walnut Canyon to your must-see list! It's an incredible place to experience a piece of Native American history up close. So, hit the island trail, soak in the views, and as always, get some dirt in your shoes! Head over to the Dirt In My Shoes Facebook and Instagram page for more travel planning and ideas!!  For a full summary of this episode, links to things we mentioned, and free resources and 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 Grand Canyon or Petrified Forest, check out our Grand Canyon Podcast Episodes and Petrified Forest Podcast Episodes! ....................................

In this episode of Exploring the National Parks, we are exploring Capitol Reef National Park! We love this place because it's basically Utah's Mighty 5 jammed into one incredible park. The things you can see here are truly jaw-dropping!  We're not just talking about the scenic drive today; we're digging into the really cool and quirky things that make this park stand out. Join us as we explore the hero story of Capitol Reef. Join us as we discuss… ​​Why this park defies Utah's flat landscape  What makes the Waterpocket Fold here so stunning An insane fact about the Entrada Sandstone in this park (prepare to have your mind blown!) Why this park is an ancient life hotspot (one of the best in the world!) A surprising fact about the people who lived here  We hope you enjoyed these fun facts about Capitol Reef, or as the Navajo people call it, the Land of the Sleeping Rainbow! There is so much to this park if you just look a little deeper, and we hope you get a chance to get out there and explore it soon.  Today’s Task: What is your home park? Head over to the Dirt In My Shoes Facebook and Instagram page and let us know!  For a full summary of this episode, links to things we mentioned, and free resources and 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 these Capitol Reef Free Resources. ....................................

Get ready to celebrate Independence Day the national park way! In this episode of Exploring the National Parks, we’re sharing our favorite national parks to visit during the 4th of July.  From dazzling fireworks displays in gateway towns to unique park experiences, we'll give you the inside scoop on where to have a truly spectacular and patriotic holiday surrounded by America's natural beauty. Join us as we discuss… John's memories of epic 4th of July celebrations in Jackson Hole   The appeal of celebrating Independence Day near national parks   Some of the fantastic gateway towns that offer memorable 4th of July experiences   Our favorite 4th of July experiences in national parks (and what made them so special)   One national park destination we don't recommend for the 4th of July (and why) Whether you're looking for the perfect place to see fireworks after a day of hiking or simply want to soak in the patriotic spirit amidst stunning landscapes, we hope this episode sparks some ideas for your next 4th of July adventure! Today’s Task: We'd love to hear about your favorite national park to celebrate the 4th of July! Head over to the Dirt In My Shoes Facebook or Instagram page and share your top picks in our post. For a full summary of this episode, links to things we mentioned, and free resources and 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. ....................................

Ready to rev your engines and explore the best of America's (and Canada's!) national parks? Join us in this episode of Exploring the National Parks as we round up our all-time favorite road trips- perfect for this road trip season!  From the stunning peaks of the Pacific Northwest to the iconic landscapes of the Southwest, we're sharing our top tips and must-see destinations. And because every great road trip needs great snacks, we're even pairing each route with a fun potato-themed dish!   Join us as we discuss: A 10-day adventure through Tennessee, North Carolina, and Kentucky An epic journey through the Pacific Northwest, featuring towering redwoods and fiery volcanoes A 14-day trip through the Canadian Rockies, complete with jaw-dropping glaciers A jam-packed Black Hills road trip in South Dakota, where you can experience a ton of amazing sites without spending too much time in the car A grand tour of the Southwest, hitting nine national parks in 14 days and encountering landscapes so otherworldly, you won't believe they're on Earth We hope you found this episode helpful and that it inspires you to plan your own perfect road trip this summer! You can find more details on each of these road trips in Episode 87, Episode 21, Episode 25, Episode 29, and Episode 15. And don't forget your potato delicacies! For your task today, let us know which road trip you’re most excited for! Head over to the Dirt In My Shoes Facebook or Instagram page and share your pick! 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. ....................................

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.