Exploring the National Parks

125: Exploring Mammoth Cave National Park: Best Tips + Activities

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

124: Favorite Native American National Park Sites

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

123: 5 Fascinating Fun Facts about Bryce Canyon National Park

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

122: Best National Parks for Teenagers!

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

121: Exploring Bryce Canyon National Park: Best Tips + Activities

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.
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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!
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120: Small Park Spotlight - Walnut Canyon National Monument

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.
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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!
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119: 5 Fascinating Fun Facts about Capitol Reef National Park

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.
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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.
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118: 4th of July in the National Parks

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.
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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.
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117: Favorite National Park Road Trips!

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.
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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.
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116: Exploring Capitol Reef National Park: Best Tips + Activities

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.
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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.
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