Exploring the National Parks

140: 5 Fascinating Fun Facts about Wind Cave National Park

Wind Cave National Park is one of the most surprising, mysterious, and underrated parks in the Black Hills. Today we are diving into Wind Cave fun facts that will completely change the way you see this small-on-the-surface but massive-underground national park.
In this episode, we cover:
Why Wind Cave National Park gets bypassed, and why we think it should not
The human history that makes Wind Cave feel like an adventure story, including the cave’s Lakota name, Maka Oniye, or “Breathing Earth”
The teen explorer who mapped the first miles of the cave with string, candlelight, and a whole lot of bravery
The rare cave formations Wind Cave is famous for, including boxwork and giant helictite bushes
The secret behind the wind, and why scientists think we have only discovered about 10% of the cave so far
Your task for today: 
Spend 15 to 20 minutes on the Wind Cave National Park Service website and look up one thing we talked about, like the Lakota emergence story, Alvin McDonald’s diary entries, or the cave formation photos.
Don’t miss the full show notes packed with all the links we mentioned so you can plan your adventures like a pro: https://www.dirtinmyshoes.com/5-fascinating-fun-facts-about-wind-cave-national-park/ 
Planning your own Wind Cave National Park adventure?
Dirt in My Shoes South Dakota Itinerary: https://shop.dirtinmyshoes.com/products/south-dakota-itinerary 
Dirt In My Shoes Wind Cave National Park Planning Resources: https://www.dirtinmyshoes.com/wind-cave-national-park/ 
Episode 135: 139: Exploring Wind Cave National Park: Best Tips + Activities: https://www.dirtinmyshoes.com/exploring-wind-cave-national-park-best-tips-activities/ 
Episode 29: The Black Hills (Wind Cave, Custer State Park, Wind Cave, and more!): https://www.dirtinmyshoes.com/29-the-black-hills-wind-cave-custer-state-park-jewel-cave-and-more/ 
Master Reservation List: https://www.dirtinmyshoes.com/list/
National Park Checklist: https://www.dirtinmyshoes.com/national-parks-checklist/ 
Trip Packing List: https://www.dirtinmyshoes.com/pack/

139: Exploring Wind Cave National Park: Best Tips + Activities

Wind Cave National Park is one of the most underrated stops in the Black Hills, and it is absolutely worth digging a little deeper for. Come with us into the prairies of South Dakota for rare cave beauty, bison sightings, and the kind of quiet that makes you exhale.
In this episode, we cover:
Why Wind Cave is so underrated, and why I recommend it even when people say Jewel Cave is “prettier”
How to get cave tour tickets (and why you should not wait until the day of)
Which three tours to choose from as a first time visitor, plus options for special tours
What to expect on your tour (temperature, what you can and cannot bring, and tips if you have kids)
Easy, high reward things to do above ground, including wildlife drives, a short scenic hike, and a quick trip to Hot Springs
Your task for today: Have you been to Wind Cave National Park? Tell us what you loved, and share your best photos (because this park is famously hard to photograph!). Head over to our post on the @DirtInMyShoes Facebook or Instagram page and share with us!
Don’t miss the full show notes packed with all the links we mentioned so you can plan your adventures like a pro: https://www.dirtinmyshoes.com/exploring-wind-cave-national-park-best-tips-activities/ 
Planning your own Wind Cave National Park adventure?
Dirt in My Shoes South Dakota Itinerary: https://shop.dirtinmyshoes.com/products/south-dakota-itinerary 
Dirt In My Shoes Wind Cave National Park Planning Resources: https://www.dirtinmyshoes.com/wind-cave-national-park/ 
Episode 29: The Black Hills (Wind Cave, Custer State Park, Wind Cave, and more!): https://www.dirtinmyshoes.com/29-the-black-hills-wind-cave-custer-state-park-jewel-cave-and-more/ 
Master Reservation List: https://www.dirtinmyshoes.com/list/
National Park Checklist: https://www.dirtinmyshoes.com/national-parks-checklist/ 
Trip Packing List: https://www.dirtinmyshoes.com/pack/

138: 5 Incredible Fun Facts about Arizona’s Saguaro National Park

Cactus, sunshine, and desert drama: this is the episode where we go all in on the most iconic plant of the American West. Saguaro National Park is bursting with towering giants and incredible stories of survival, and we’re digging into all of it!
In this episode, we cover:
Why the saguaro cactus is an American icon (and possibly a giant green lightsaber)
What makes saguaros so tough, and why they only grow in certain parts of the desert
The mind-blowing slow growth of a baby saguaro, and how nurse trees help them survive
The park's wild history of cactus rustling and near collapse
How the saguaro population is finally bouncing back
Your task for today: Visit Saguaro National Park’s Facebook or Instagram and thank a ranger! Their work protects plants that won’t even reach full height in their lifetimes, and it’s incredible. 
Don’t miss the full show notes packed with all the links we mentioned so you can plan your adventures like a pro: https://www.dirtinmyshoes.com/5-incredible-fun-facts-about-arizonas-saguaro-national-park/ 
Planning your own Saguaro National Park adventure?
Episode 136: Exploring Saguaro National Park: Best Tips + Activities: https://www.dirtinmyshoes.com/136-exploring-saguaro-national-park-best-tips-activities/
5 Things You Can’t Miss on Your First Visit to Saguaro: https://www.dirtinmyshoes.com/5-things-cant-miss-first-visit-saguaro/ 
8 Day Spring Break National Parks Road Trip!: https://www.dirtinmyshoes.com/8-day-spring-break-national-parks-road-trip/ 
Master Reservation List: https://www.dirtinmyshoes.com/list/
National Park Checklist: https://www.dirtinmyshoes.com/national-parks-checklist/ 
Trip Packing List: https://www.dirtinmyshoes.com/pack/

137: The Best National Parks for Wildlife Viewing!

The wildlife showdown is on! We’re covering the best national parks to see animals in the wild. Whether you’re hoping to see wolves in Yellowstone or whales in Glacier Bay, we share our favorite parks for seeing animals across the U.S., from the great plains of Yellowstone to the coastal coves of Glacier Bay. 
In this episode, we cover:
Our favorite national parks for wildlife overall, plus why Alaska is in a whole different weight class
Where to go for specific animals, including black bears, grizzlies, moose, wolves, and buffalo (yes, we said buffalo)
The best parks for sea life, from dolphins and manatees to whales you can literally hear from your room
A rapid-fire list of parks for some surprising creatures, like condors, bats, bighorn sheep, and birds
Your task for today: What wildlife have you not seen yet that you really want to see in a national park? Head over to the @DirtInMyShoes Facebook or Instagram page and let us know!
Don’t miss the full show notes packed with all the links we mentioned so you can plan your adventures like a pro: https://www.dirtinmyshoes.com/the-best-national-parks-for-wildlife-viewing/ 
Planning your own wildlife viewing adventure?
Dirt In My Shoes Itineraries: https://www.dirtinmyshoes.com/national-park-trip-itineraries/ 
Master Reservation List: https://www.dirtinmyshoes.com/list/
National Park Checklist: https://www.dirtinmyshoes.com/national-parks-checklist/ 
Trip Packing List: https://www.dirtinmyshoes.com/pack/

136: Exploring Saguaro National Park: Best Tips + Activities

The silhouettes of giant saguaros against a glowing desert sky are the kind of view that stops you in your tracks. If you want one park that delivers pure golden hour magic, spicy Tucson flavor, and a choose-your-own-adventure split right down the middle, Saguaro National Park is it.
In this episode, we cover:
Why Saguaro is basically two parks in one, with a whole city in between, and how that changes your planning.
The best time of year to visit, plus why sunrise and sunset matter here more than almost anywhere else.
Our go-to stops on West Saguaro, including our favorite campground, a tiny trail we do every time, and quick hikes with big payoff.
Our go-to stops on East Saguaro, where the saguaros get huge, the loop drive is paved, and bikers are everywhere.
The Tucson extras that make the trip even better, including Sonoran hot dogs, two museums we love, and one oddly specific RV tip.
Your task for today: Pick your side! Are you a West Saguaro person who wants more solitude, or an East Saguaro person who wants the biggest, oldest saguaros you can find? Head over to the @DirtInMyShoes Facebook or Instagram page and let us know what you think!
Don’t miss the full show notes packed with all the links we mentioned so you can plan your adventures like a pro: https://www.dirtinmyshoes.com/136-exploring-saguaro-national-park-best-tips-activities/ 
Planning your own Saguaro National Park adventure?
5 Things You Can’t Miss on Your First Visit to Saguaro: https://www.dirtinmyshoes.com/5-things-cant-miss-first-visit-saguaro/ 
8 Day Spring Break National Parks Road Trip!: https://www.dirtinmyshoes.com/8-day-spring-break-national-parks-road-trip/ 
Master Reservation List: https://www.dirtinmyshoes.com/list/
National Park Checklist: https://www.dirtinmyshoes.com/national-parks-checklist/ 
Trip Packing List: https://www.dirtinmyshoes.com/pack/

135: Our Top 3 National Park Experiences in 2025!

What do an erupting volcano, a flooded forest, and the 250th anniversary of American independence have in common? They all made our list of top national park adventures from 2025! This year gave us some unforgettable experiences, and we can't wait to share them with you.
In this episode, we cover:
Why Boston is the perfect place to celebrate America’s 250th birthday in 2026
What it’s like to kayak Cedar Creek in Congaree National Park
How we managed to see Kilauea erupting in real time at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
Your task for today: Check the USGS or NPS website to see if Kilauea is still erupting, and start planning your own once-in-a-lifetime lava-viewing trip. Or, if volcanoes aren’t in the cards, look up Revolutionary War sites in the national park system to help plan your 250th anniversary celebration in 2026. Head over to the @DirtInMyShoes Facebook or Instagram page and let us know what you think!
Don’t miss the full show notes packed with all the links we mentioned so you can plan your adventures like a pro: https://www.dirtinmyshoes.com/our-top-3-national-park-experiences-in-2025/ 
Planning your own 2026 adventure?
Dirt In My Shoes Itineraries: https://www.dirtinmyshoes.com/national-park-trip-itineraries/ 
Master Reservation List: https://www.dirtinmyshoes.com/list/
National Park Checklist: https://www.dirtinmyshoes.com/national-parks-checklist/ 
Trip Packing List: https://www.dirtinmyshoes.com/pack/

134: Q&A - Recreation.gov Loophole, Hidden Gems, Alaska Parks, and Utah's Mighty Five

Wondering when to visit the Mighty 5 or which parks are best for kids? Trying to figure out if staying inside the park is really worth the price? This episode of Exploring the National Parks is packed with tips and personal stories to help you plan smarter for 2026!
In this episode, we cover:
When it's definitely worth camping inside the park versus staying in a gateway town
How to outsmart (or at least survive) Recreation.gov reservations and what NOT to do
What to expect in Glacier in June vs. July
Our favorite hidden gems in Yellowstone and Grand Teton
When to road trip the Mighty 5, how we travel with kids, and more!
Your task for today: We want to know whether or not you think Exploring the National Parks should be a video podcast! Head over to the @DirtInMyShoes Facebook or Instagram page and let us know your thoughts!
Don’t miss the full show notes packed with all the links we mentioned so you can plan your adventures like a pro: https://www.dirtinmyshoes.com/qa-recreation-gov-loophole-hidden-gems-alaska-parks-and-utahs-mighty-five/ 
Planning your own 2026 adventure?
Dirt In My Shoes Itineraries: https://www.dirtinmyshoes.com/national-park-trip-itineraries/ 
Master Reservation List: https://www.dirtinmyshoes.com/list/
National Park Checklist: https://www.dirtinmyshoes.com/national-parks-checklist/ 
Trip Packing List: https://www.dirtinmyshoes.com/pack/

133: 10-Day Florida National Parks Road Trip!

Sunshine, salty breezes, and three incredible Florida national parks in one unforgettable road trip: Everglades, Biscayne, and Dry Tortugas. Ready to chase wildlife, island-hop through the Keys, and discover Florida's wildest surprises in these national parks?
Welcome to our 10-day Florida national parks road trip! 
In this episode, we cover:
A full 10-day road trip that visits Everglades, Biscayne, and Dry Tortugas National Parks
Wildlife-packed trails, guided boat tours, and quiet corners of the Everglades you might miss
Snorkeling, lighthouses, and the island-party energy of Biscayne and Boca Chita
Epic journeys through the Florida Keys on your way to Dry Tortugas
The very best spots for manatees, alligators, dolphins, and key lime pie
Your task for today: Tell us which park on this Florida road trip you are MOST excited to explore (Everglades, Biscayne, or Dry Tortugas) over on the @DirtInMyShoes Facebook or Instagram page!
Don’t miss the full show notes packed with all the links we mentioned so you can plan your adventures like a pro: https://www.dirtinmyshoes.com/10-day-florida-national-parks-road-trip/ 
Planning your own Florida adventure?
Episode 6: Everglades Favorites: https://www.dirtinmyshoes.com/episode-6-everglades-favorites/ 
Episode 7: Everglades Fun Facts: https://www.dirtinmyshoes.com/episode-7-everglades-fun-facts/ 
Episode 8: Everglades Stories: https://www.dirtinmyshoes.com/episode-8-everglades-stories/ 
Episode 9: Everglades Trip Planning: https://www.dirtinmyshoes.com/episode-9-everglades-trip-planning/ 
Episode 58: Exploring Dry Tortugas: https://www.dirtinmyshoes.com/exploring-dry-tortugas/ 
Episode 59: Dry Tortugas Fun Facts: https://www.dirtinmyshoes.com/5-fun-facts-about-dry-tortugas-national-park/ 
Master Reservation List: https://www.dirtinmyshoes.com/list/
National Park Checklist: https://www.dirtinmyshoes.com/national-parks-checklist/ 
Trip Packing List: https://www.dirtinmyshoes.com/pack/

132: 5 Fascinating Fun Facts about Congaree National Park

Congaree National Park feels alive in every direction, thriving with creatures, towering trees, and raw, wild energy. Step inside this primordial world with us and experience the Southeast as it once was through five fun facts! 
In this episode, we cover:
Why Congaree National Park feels like stepping into a primordial world
Record-breaking floods, champion trees, and the raw power of a living landscape
A Revolutionary War swamp fox and a daring fight for freedom near the McCord Ferry
The hidden history of maroon camps and survival in the Congaree wilderness
Your task for today: Watch The Patriot and notice how the swampy, river-filled landscape mirrors the real environments around Congaree. Then start dreaming about your own visit to this wild place! Head over to the @DirtInMyShoes Facebook or Instagram page and let us know what you think.
Planning your own Congaree adventure?
Episode 130: Exploring Congaree National Park: https://www.dirtinmyshoes.com/exploring-congaree-national-park-best-tips-activities/ 
Master Reservation List: https://www.dirtinmyshoes.com/list/
National Park Checklist: https://www.dirtinmyshoes.com/national-parks-checklist/ 
Trip Packing List: https://www.dirtinmyshoes.com/pack/
Don’t miss the full show notes packed with all the links we mentioned so you can plan your adventures like a pro: https://www.dirtinmyshoes.com/5-fascinating-fun-facts-about-congaree-national-park/ 

131: Acadia Trip Report

Acadia National Park in July was a whirlwind of foggy mornings, lobster feasts, and sweaty summit hikes! From heated parking lot showdowns at Jordan Pond to the peaceful waves of Schoodic Point, this trip was full of surprises, laughs, and plenty of learning moments.
In this episode, we cover:
The absolute chaos of the Jordan Pond parking lot (and how to avoid it)
Why fog and humidity made this one of our trickiest trips yet
Where to find the best lobster rolls outside of Bar Harbor
Mountain summits, hidden gems, and Acadia adventures beyond the crowds
Your task for today: We hope we've convinced you that Acadia is still worth the trip, even with its challenges! Head over to the @DirtInMyShoes  Facebook or Instagram page and let us know what you think. Have you ever witnessed a parking lot brawl or cried over the fog in a National Park? We'd love to hear your story!
Planning your own Acadia adventure?Dirt In My Shoes Acadia Itineraries: https://www.dirtinmyshoes.com/acadia-itinerary/ 
Master Reservation List: https://www.dirtinmyshoes.com/list/
National Park Checklist: https://www.dirtinmyshoes.com/national-parks-checklist/ 
Trip Packing List: https://www.dirtinmyshoes.com/pack/
Don’t miss the full show notes packed with all the links we mentioned so you can plan your adventures like a pro: https://www.dirtinmyshoes.com/acadia-trip-report/