Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks Podcast

#163: Mailbag: Our Trip to Italy’s Dolomites and More! Oct 01, 2024

In our Mailbag! episodes, we answer questions from listeners about the national parks, ranger-led tours, road trips, hiking, camping, backpacking, gear, relationships, and pretty much whatever anyone wants to ask us.

In this episode, we cover these topics:

· An overview of recent national park news,

· A discussion about our trip to Italy and our experience in the beautiful Dolomites,

· Our opinion about what not to miss on a visit to Cuyahoga National Park,

· Whether it’s worth visiting Yosemite National Park in April or May,

· Ideas for a family vacation in the Southwest during March or April,

· And more!

The best way to support our podcast is to become a member of our Patreon account. Follow this link to check it out.

Subscribe to The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen, and if you’ve enjoyed our show, please leave us a review or rating on Apple Podcasts. Five-star ratings help other listeners find our show.

Follow us on Instagram at @mattandkarensmith, on Twitter at @mattandkaren, on Facebook at dearbobands, or check out our blog at www.mattandkaren.com.

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#162: Glacier National Park Planning Guide Aug 29, 2024

Glacier National Park is considered the “crown of the continent” because of its pristine beauty, rugged wilderness, and magnificent wildlife. While the park is open all year, summer is the primetime for visitors. However, the window to visit while the park is relatively snow-free and the main roads are open is narrow.

With a limited number of days to experience all the park offers, competition for lodging and activity reservations is keen. In this episode, we give an overview of what you need to know to plan a summer trip to the park and offer tips to provide you with the best chance at being prepared once you get there.

We talk about the various areas of the park, details about the Going-To-the-Sun Road, the park’s free shuttle, popular trails, lodging options inside and outside the park, campsites, and more.

Here are a few links related to this episode:

Glacier National Park’s webpage regarding the free shuttle system
Glacier National Park’s webpage about the historic lodges and chalets
Granite Park Chalet’s website
Sperry Chalet’s website
Learn more about boat tours in the park at Glacier Park Boat Company

· Link to our Patreon account

The best way to support our podcast is to become a member of our Patreon account. Follow this link to check it out.

And don’t forget to check out our new online merch store and www.dirtlander.com.

Subscribe to The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen, and if you’ve enjoyed our show, please leave us a review or rating on Apple Podcasts. Five-star ratings help other listeners find our show.

Follow us on Instagram at @mattandkarensmith, on Twitter at @mattandkaren, on Facebook at dearbobands, or check out our blog at www.mattandkaren.com.

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#161: Mailbag: Petrified Forest National Park and More! Jul 22, 2024

In our Mailbag! episodes, we answer questions from listeners about the national parks, ranger-led tours, road trips, hiking, camping, backpacking, gear, relationships, and pretty much whatever anyone wants to ask us.

In this episode, we cover these topics:

· Zion National Park is working on a new visitor use management plan,

· Issues related to Mount Rainier National Park’s new timed-entry system this summer (2024),

· Tips on making the most of a visit to Petrified Forest National Park,

· Where to stay when visiting Yellowstone National Park,

· When’s the best time to visit both Death Valley and Yosemite National Parks,

· And more!

The best way to support our podcast is to become a member of our Patreon account. Follow this link to check it out.

Subscribe to The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen, and if you’ve enjoyed our show, please leave us a review or rating on Apple Podcasts. Five-star ratings help other listeners find our show.

Follow us on Instagram at @mattandkarensmith, on Twitter at @mattandkaren, on Facebook at dearbobands, or check out our blog at www.mattandkaren.com.

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#160: Bucket List Adventures in the National Parks Jun 27, 2024

What’s on your bucket list? It’s a topic everyone is talking about these days, and we have a few suggestions for anyone who loves our national parks and public lands.

Back in the day, our list was simple; visit all the U.S. national parks. But once we checked them all off, we realized our list was longer than when we started. In this episode, we talk about some of the most popular places to see and things to do that people put on their bucket list; what they want to do before they kick the bucket.

Many of the places we discuss we’ve been to before, some we haven’t, and many more we’ll probably keep going back to again and again. From once-in-a-lifetime wildlife viewing experiences to backcountry lodges and more, we share with you some awe-inspiring suggestions you might not have heard of before.

So, get out a pen and paper (or if you aren’t as old as we are, feel free to type some notes into your phone) and join us as we imagine the bucket list possibilities our public lands hold in store.

The best way to support our podcast is to become a member of our Patreon account. Follow this link to check it out.

And don’t forget to check out our new online merch store and www.dirtlander.com.

Subscribe to The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen, and if you’ve enjoyed our show, please leave us a review or rating on Apple Podcasts. Five-star ratings help other listeners find our show.

Follow us on Instagram at @mattandkarensmith, on Twitter at @mattandkaren, on Facebook at dearbobands, or check out our blog at www.mattandkaren.com.

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#159: An Epic Colorado National Park Road Trip Loop Jun 13, 2024

Join us as we take you on an epic road trip to all four of Colorado’s national parks!

These four parks are incredibly diverse, and this trip will have you driving through alpine forests in the Rocky Mountains, hiking up the tallest sand dunes in North America, climbing ladders as you explore cultural treasures, and standing on the rim of a seemingly bottomless dark canyon.

We’ve organized this episode with the road trip starting in Denver and driving clockwise around the state, but you can pick up our trail anywhere along the loop. And we’ve made suggestions for several add-on sites you’ll also want to consider, including Pikes Peak, Garden of the Gods, Chimney Rock National Monument, and a mountain pass highway in southwest Colorado with million-dollar views.

Summer is here, and it’s time to hit the road. And we have the perfect itinerary planned for you – coming up!

Here are a few helpful links related to this episode:

· Where to get Mesa Verde NP tour tickets

· A link to Pike Peak’s website where you can buy visitor and vehicle timed-entry tickets

· More information about Rocky Mountain National Park’s timed entry permit program

· Link to our Patreon account

The best way to support our podcast is to become a member of our Patreon account. Follow this link to check it out.

And don’t forget to check out our new online merch store and www.dirtlander.com.

Subscribe to The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen, and if you’ve enjoyed our show, please leave us a review or rating on Apple Podcasts. Five-star ratings help other listeners find our show.

Follow us on Instagram at @mattandkarensmith, on Twitter at @mattandkaren, on Facebook at dearbobands, or check out our blog at www.mattandkaren.com.

To advertise on The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast, email us at mattandkarensmith@gmail.com.

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#158: Three Perfect Days in the Columbia River Gorge May 02, 2024

Carved by the once-wild Columbia River, the Columbia River Gorge is a dramatic canyon that snakes through the Cascade Range in the Pacific Northwest on its way to the Pacific Ocean. It's an area of stunning natural beauty with endless outdoor adventure options.

Using the town of Hood River, Oregon, as our home base, we recently visited the gorge in search of waterfalls. (The area has nearly 100.) And being that it was spring when we were there, the waterfalls did not disappoint -- especially the famous Multnomah Falls – the most-visited single natural attraction in the Pacific Northwest.

In this episode, we talk about several of the best waterfalls in the area, a couple of breathtaking trails to hike close to Hood River, a state park you won’t want to miss, and some of the restaurants and breweries we visited. We also share a little history of the area.

A few links we mentioned in this episode:

· KURU Footwear’s website https://www.kurufootwear.com/

· A link to KURU’s RIDGE Motion shoes

· Link to our Patreon account

The best way to support our podcast is to become a member of our Patreon account. Follow this link to check it out.

And don’t forget to check out our new online merch store and www.dirtlander.com.

Subscribe to The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen, and if you’ve enjoyed our show, please leave us a review or rating on Apple Podcasts. Five-star ratings help other listeners find our show.

Follow us on Instagram at @mattandkarensmith, on Twitter at @mattandkaren, on Facebook at dearbobands, or check out our blog at www.mattandkaren.com.

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#157: Celebrating National Park Week Apr 18, 2024

Each year, the National Park Service celebrates National Park Week in April. And this year, they’ve planned events from April 20th through April 28th.

In this episode, we highlight some of the activities that will happen during National Park Week, give a brief history of the creation of the NPS, and interview our special guest, Jacob Wolfley, who recently spent a summer as an intern park range at Wind Cave National Park in South Dakota.

Jacob will enlighten us on what it takes to score a job or internship at a national park, what it’s like working as a ranger, and his ambitions for a possible career with the NPS.

So, tune in and get ready to learn about the NPS and all the exciting activities coming up in National Park Week.

Here are a couple of links related to the topics we discussed in this episode:

· Find out more information about National Park Week here

· Here is a link to the National Park Service’s jobs site

· Check out our interview guest, Jacob Wolfley, on Instagram

The best way to support our podcast is to become a member of our Patreon account. Follow this link to check it out.

And don’t forget to check out our new online merch store and www.dirtlander.com.

Subscribe to The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen, and if you’ve enjoyed our show, please leave us a review or rating on Apple Podcasts. Five-star ratings help other listeners find our show.

Follow us on Instagram at @mattandkarensmith, on Twitter at @mattandkaren, on Facebook at dearbobands, or check out our blog at www.mattandkaren.com.

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#156: Mailbag: Visiting Guadalupe Mountains National Park and More! Apr 04, 2024

In our Mailbag! episodes, we answer questions from listeners about the national parks, ranger-led tours, road trips, hiking, camping, backpacking, gear, relationships, and pretty much whatever anyone wants to ask us.

In this episode, we cover these topics:

· An overview of some of the closures within the national parks this year,

· Suggestions for hikes in Guadalupe Mountains National Park,

· Tips for avoiding altitude sickness when traveling to high-elevation parks,

· Common mistakes people make when planning a trip to the national parks,

· Relationship advice for couples who are together 24/7,

· And more!

The best way to support our podcast is to become a member of our Patreon account. Follow this link to check it out.

And don’t forget to check out our new online merch store and www.dirtlander.com.

Subscribe to The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen, and if you’ve enjoyed our show, please leave us a review or rating on Apple Podcasts. Five-star ratings help other listeners find our show.

Follow us on Instagram at @mattandkarensmith, on Twitter at @mattandkaren, on Facebook at dearbobands, or check out our blog at www.mattandkaren.com.

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#155: Glacier, Yellowstone, and Grand Teton National Parks Road Trip Mar 21, 2024

One of the most frequent questions we get from travelers is how to plan a visit to Glacier, Yellowstone, and Grand Teton NPs in a single road trip. In this episode, we cover all the details you’ll need to do just that.

Without a doubt, these three parks are at the top of our “most spectacular” list. Each has its unique history and landscape, yet they’re all great places to witness once-in-a-lifetime wildlife encounters. The other thing they have in common is that they all have mountainous regions. Given their elevations, winter weather can sneak up on you anytime during the year, which makes carefully choosing your dates to visit even more important than with many other destinations.

With the current popularity of the national parks, especially these three, embarking on a road trip to see them requires advanced planning. We suggest a year or more before your desired travel date. However, you can do it, and we’ll share all the tips and tricks we know to help you.

The best way to support our podcast is to become a member of our Patreon account. Follow this link to check it out.

And don’t forget to check out our new online merch store and www.dirtlander.com.

Subscribe to The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen, and if you’ve enjoyed our show, please leave us a review or rating on Apple Podcasts. Five-star ratings help other listeners find our show.

Follow us on Instagram at @mattandkarensmith, on Twitter at @mattandkaren, on Facebook at dearbobands, or check out our blog at www.mattandkaren.com.

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#154: Mailbag: Visiting Virgin Islands National Park and More! Mar 07, 2024

In our Mailbag! episodes, we answer questions from listeners about the national parks, ranger-led tours, road trips, hiking, camping, backpacking, gear, relationships, and pretty much whatever anyone wants to ask us.

In this episode, we cover these topics:

· News about a faster way to enter Rocky Mountain National Park this summer,

· Update about cabin demolitions within Olympic National Park,

· Travel advice for a listener wanting to visit the Pacific Northwest this fall to see the mountain larches change colors,

· Tips for visiting Virgin Islands National Park,

· Our thoughts about a couple of our favorite “hard-to-get-to” national parks,

· The ranger-led tours in Mesa Verde National Park ranked from easiest to most difficult,

· National Parks that are good for kids,

· And more!

Click this link for more about us: https://linktr.ee/mattandkaren

The best way to support our podcast is to become a member of our Patreon account. Follow this link to check it out.

And don’t forget to check out our new online merch store and www.dirtlander.com.

Subscribe to The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen, and if you’ve enjoyed our show, please leave us a review or rating on Apple Podcasts. Five-star ratings help other listeners find our show.

Follow us on Instagram at @mattandkarensmith, on Twitter at @mattandkaren, on Facebook at dearbobands, or check out our blog at www.mattandkaren.com.

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#153: The Legacy of the Buffalo Soldiers in Our National Parks Feb 29, 2024

Long before the National Park Service was founded, the U.S. Army was put in charge of protecting America’s national parks. One of the groups that played a crucial role in fulfilling this invaluable service to our country was the Buffalo Soldiers: African American officers and enlisted men serving in the Army.

When the regimen stationed in San Francisco was tasked with protecting and developing infrastructure in Sequoia and General Grant (now Kings Canyon) National Parks, these incredibly hardworking soldiers made jaw-dropping progress in their first season of duty.

Led by the infamous Captain Charles Young, who was later posthumously promoted to Brigadier General, this group of approximately one hundred men set out to guard and improve these priceless areas. They built roads into the parks and protected the land from poachers and trespassers, making it possible for future generations of visitors to these national treasures.

In this episode, we discuss the accomplishments of the Buffalo Soldiers, not just in these two parks but also in Yosemite and the surrounding public lands.

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Click this link for more about us: https://linktr.ee/mattandkaren

The best way to support our podcast is to become a member of our Patreon account. Follow this link to check it out.

And don’t forget to check out our new online merch store and www.dirtlander.com.

Subscribe to The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen, and if you’ve enjoyed our show, please leave us a review or rating on Apple Podcasts. Five-star ratings help other listeners find our show.

Follow us on Instagram at @mattandkarensmith, on Twitter at @mattandkaren, on Facebook at dearbobands, or check out our blog at www.mattandkaren.com.

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#152: Dry Tortugas National Park Update Feb 26, 2024

Dry Tortugas National Park is in a category of its own: pre-civil war fort, 70 miles out to sea with nothing else around it, incredible history, beautiful tropical keys with campsites, and right in the path of the most powerful hurricanes on the planet. Nowhere else can you visit a place with world-class snorkeling and see the rooms where they held the most dangerous civil war prisoners.

In this episode, we discuss some recent updates about the park, provide details about visiting and camping there, and reminisce about our visit over a decade ago. What started out for us as a brief update episode has rekindled our interest in this incredible national park and our desire to revisit it someday. And when we do, maybe we’ll camp. There’s just one small detail you might want to know about the Dry Tortugas camping situation that makes Karen a little worried. You’ll have to tune in and listen to find out what that is.

A couple of links where you can find important, up-to-date information:

· Dry Tortugas National Park’s website

· Yankee Freedom boat ticket information

The best way to support our podcast is to become a member of our Patreon account. Follow this link to check it out.

And don’t forget to check out our new online merch store and www.dirtlander.com.

Subscribe to The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen, and if you’ve enjoyed our show, please leave us a review or rating on Apple Podcasts. Five-star ratings help other listeners find our show.

Follow us on Instagram at @mattandkarensmith, on Twitter at @mattandkaren, on Facebook at dearbobands, or check out our blog at www.mattandkaren.com.

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#151: Hiking in the Palm Springs Area Feb 22, 2024

This episode is a companion to our previous release, #150: Exploring Joshua Tree National Park. So many travelers to this magical part of Southern California spend time in both Joshua Tree NP and Palm Springs that these back-to-back episodes would be perfect for anyone planning a trip to the area.

Today, we’re focusing on hikes in and around Palm Springs, sharing a few of our favorite trails with you. From an easy hike through an oasis in the Indian Canyon area of the Agua Caliente Reservation to a ladder-aided scramble up a slot canyon on a Bureau of Land Management site, we discuss just a few of the fantastic hikes waiting for you in the Coachella Valley.

From fall to spring, this desert playground is a perfect place to get out into nature and challenge yourself with a heart-pounding hike before relaxing by the pool or enjoying a round of golf. And if you are looking for a real test of endurance, there is even a trail known to be the most difficult day hike in America. The Cactus to Cloud Trail rises from the desert floor over 10,000 vertical feet to the top of the San Jacinto Mountain range.

So, get out your notepad and prepare to jot down a few travel tips while we take you to Palm Springs!

Links to some of the things we discussed in this episode:

· Info about the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway , and

· Indian Canyons

The best way to support our podcast is to become a member of our Patreon account. Follow this link to check it out.

And don’t forget to check out our new online merch store and www.dirtlander.com.

Subscribe to The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen, and if you’ve enjoyed our show, please leave us a review or rating on Apple Podcasts. Five-star ratings help other listeners find our show.

Follow us on Instagram at @mattandkarensmith, on Twitter at @mattandkaren, on Facebook at dearbobands, or check out our blog at www.mattandkaren.com.

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#150: Exploring Joshua Tree National Park Feb 15, 2024

Welcome to our journey through the awe-inspiring landscapes of America's national parks! Today is part one of a two-part series about Southern California's desert playground, where we explore the magical and rugged terrain of Joshua Tree National Park.

Located about 130 miles east of Los Angeles, Joshua Tree National Park is a world of its own. With over three million visitors annually, it's a favorite spring break destination, though the park reveals its unique charm throughout the year.

In this episode, we give an overview of the park's most popular hiking trails and share our experiences hiking some of our favorites. We also provide a "lay of the land," including information about campgrounds, visitor centers, and a little vegetation education thrown in for good measure.

And for those who want to wander outside the park boundaries, we recommend a couple of unique local attractions and places to eat and drink once the sun slips over the park's peaks. All this and a history story or two make this a must-listen episode for anyone planning a trip to the park.

Next week, in part two, we'll move south of the park and talk about the diverse areas throughout the greater Palm Springs region, where you'll find some of the best hiking trails in southern California.

Links to some of the things we discussed in this episode:

· Joshua Tree NP’s bird list

· The Copper Room at Yucca Valley Airport

· Visit Pioneertown

· Pappy and Harriet’s in Pioneertown

The best way to support our podcast is to become a member of our Patreon account. Follow this link to check it out.

And don’t forget to check out our new online merch store and www.dirtlander.com.

Subscribe to The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen, and if you’ve enjoyed our show, please leave us a review or rating on Apple Podcasts. Five-star ratings help other listeners find our show.

Follow us on Instagram at @mattandkarensmith, on Twitter at @mattandkaren, on Facebook at dearbobands, or check out our blog at www.mattandkaren.com.

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#149: Mailbag: Digging for Diamonds in an Arkansas State Park and More! Feb 08, 2024

In our Mailbag! episodes, we answer questions from listeners about the national parks, ranger-led tours, road trips, hiking, camping, backpacking, gear, relationships, and pretty much whatever anyone wants to ask us.

In this episode, we cover these topics:

· Our thoughts on visiting a state park in Arkansas where a visitor recently found 7-carat diamond,

· Suggestions about fun hiking trails for young teenagers in Utah’s national parks,

· Places to visit in the Pacific Northwest when traveling from Mt. Rainier NP to Cannon Beach in Oregon,

· Tips on how to prepare for a hike to Havasu Falls in the Grand Canyon of Arizona,

· And more!

The best way to support our podcast is to become a member of our Patreon account. Follow this link to check it out.

And don’t forget to check out our new online merch store and www.dirtlander.com.

Subscribe to The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen, and if you’ve enjoyed our show, please leave us a review or rating on Apple Podcasts. Five-star ratings help other listeners find our show.

Follow us on Instagram at @mattandkarensmith, on Twitter at @mattandkaren, on Facebook at dearbobands, or check out our blog at www.mattandkaren.com.

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#148: Hiking Safety Tips from a National Park Ranger Jan 25, 2024

Who knows better what could go wrong while hiking in a national park than the people whose job it is to rescue hikers? That’s why we connected with a national park ranger to hear first-hand tips about hiking safety. In this episode, we interview Sara Shoemaker, a law enforcement ranger at Canyonlands National Park (Needles District) in southern Utah.

For several years, we’ve exchanged emails with Sara, and we recently met her while visiting her park. It was then we cooked up the idea to have her be a guest on The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast to share practical advice on staying safe while on the trail. Hopefully, you’ll pick up an idea or two from Sara that will help make your future hiking adventures enjoyable and safe.

We start the episode by briefly reviewing the ten essentials of hiking and sharing a few stories about our near-dangerous encounters while hiking when we were not fully prepared for what we encountered on the trail.

A link to a blog post about the hiking ten essentials:

· Washington Trails Association Ten Essentials

The best way to support our podcast is to become a member of our Patreon account. Follow this link to check it out.

And don’t forget to check out our new online merch store and www.dirtlander.com.

Subscribe to The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen, and if you’ve enjoyed our show, please leave us a review or rating on Apple Podcasts. Five-star ratings help other listeners find our show.

Follow us on Instagram at @mattandkarensmith, on Twitter at @mattandkaren, on Facebook at dearbobands, or check out our blog at www.mattandkaren.com.

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#147: The Best of Big Bend National Park Jan 19, 2024

A national park that started out as a state park more than 90 years ago, Big Bend is often

called Texas’ gift to the nation. With over 1,200 square miles of pristine land, this park has a wide range of ecosystems, from sprawling deserts to mountains reaching nearly 8.000 feet.

From November to April, the weather is ideal for visitors to hike in several regions of the park. In this episode, we discuss some of our favorite trails in the desert, mountains, and along the Rio Grande River.

Another unique feature of this park is that it shares a border with Mexico. And unlike in the past, you can now cross the Rio Grande River during scheduled times and visit a charming Mexican village a short hike away. If you’re planning an early November visit, check out the Terlingua Chili Cookoff in the small town by the same name, just a few miles to the west of the park.

A link to one of the places we discussed in this episode:

· Terlingua Chili Cookoff information

The best way to support our podcast is to become a member of our Patreon account. Follow this link to check it out.

And don’t forget to check out our new online merch store and www.dirtlander.com.

Subscribe to The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen, and if you’ve enjoyed our show, please leave us a review or rating on Apple Podcasts. Five-star ratings help other listeners find our show.

Follow us on Instagram at @mattandkarensmith, on Twitter at @mattandkaren, on Facebook at dearbobands, or check out our blog at www.mattandkaren.com.

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#146: Mailbag: How to Get Started Camping and More! Jan 04, 2024

In our Mailbag! episodes, we answer questions from listeners about the national parks, ranger-led tours, road trips, hiking, camping, backpacking, gear, relationships, and pretty much whatever anyone wants to ask us.

In this episode, we cover these topics:

· We reveal our ambitious 2024 New Year’s resolution (and you can join us!),

· Our gear suggestions for a family who wants to get started camping,

· A discussion about the difference between “strenuous” and “dangerous” trail descriptions,

· An overview of Glacier National Park’s 2024 shuttle program,

· Clarifying which reservations you’ll need in 2024 to visit Carlsbad Caverns NP,

· And more!

A few links related to the topics in this episode:

· Where to purchase your self-guided tour tickets for Carlsbad Caverns

· Family camping checklist from REI

· And for all you Dirtlander fans, here is a link to our Floral Bison t-shirts

The best way to support our podcast is to become a member of our Patreon account. Follow this link to check it out.

And don’t forget to check out our new online merch store and www.dirtlander.com.

Subscribe to The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen, and if you’ve enjoyed our show, please leave us a review or rating on Apple Podcasts. Five-star ratings help other listeners find our show.

Follow us on Instagram at @mattandkarensmith, on Twitter at @mattandkaren, on Facebook at dearbobands, or check out our blog at www.mattandkaren.com.

To advertise on The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast, email us at mattandkarensmith@gmail.com.

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#145 Unique Experiences in the National Parks Dec 21, 2023

For many visitors, hiking is their go-to activity in the national parks; it is for us. But there are so many other activities the parks have to offer. In this episode, we talk about a dozen or more things you can do in the parks that are unique and amazing.

From dogsledding to synchronized firefly tours, the parks offer activities that will thrill the entire family. Here are a few of the ones we discuss:

Walk on the catwalk underneath the New River Gorge Bridge,
Horseback ride,
Attend the bat flight program in Carlsbad Caverns NP,
Raft down a wild river,
Hike to and spend the night in a backcountry chalet or lodge,
See the first sunrise in the US,
Pick fruit in an orchard,
And more!

The best way to support our podcast is to become a member of our Patreon account. Follow this link to check it out.

And don’t forget to check out our new online merch store and www.dirtlander.com.

Subscribe to The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen, and if you’ve enjoyed our show, please leave us a review or rating on Apple Podcasts. Five-star ratings help other listeners find our show.

Follow us on Instagram at @mattandkarensmith, on Twitter at @mattandkaren, on Facebook at dearbobands, or check out our blog at www.mattandkaren.com.

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#144: Five Perfect Days in Saguaro NP and Southern Arizona Dec 07, 2023

As the temperatures drop up north, it’s time to start thinking about warm-weather escapes. In today’s episode, we have the perfect destination for you: Saguaro National Park and a whole bunch of other incredible public lands in Southern Arizona.

Join us as we take you on a journey through both districts of Saguaro NP, Catalina State Park, Sabino Canyon Recreation Area, and the Arizona-Sonoran Desert Museum, all within a stone’s throw from the always-bustling college town of Tucson.

We even take you on a few side trips an hour or two away from Tucson: Chiricahua NM, to the east; Casa Grande Ruins NM, north of town; and Organ Pipe Cactus NM, in the secluded desert to the west. And if you are missing the cold, snowy conditions back home, you can always take a day trip to the top of Mount Lemmon, where you can ski, do a little shopping, and be back down to the warmth of Tucson just an hour or so drive away.

A link to one of the places we discussed in this episode:

· Arizona-Sonoran Desert Museum

The best way to support our podcast is to become a member of our Patreon account. Follow this link to check it out.

And don’t forget to check out our new online merch store and www.dirtlander.com.

Subscribe to The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen, and if you’ve enjoyed our show, please leave us a review or rating on Apple Podcasts. Five-star ratings help other listeners find our show.

Follow us on Instagram at @mattandkarensmith, on Twitter at @mattandkaren, on Facebook at dearbobands, or check out our blog at www.mattandkaren.com.

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#143: Mailbag: Where to See Moose in the National Parks, and More! Nov 30, 2023

In our Mailbag! episodes, we answer questions from listeners about the national parks, ranger-led tours, road trips, hiking, camping, backpacking, gear, relationships, and pretty much whatever anyone wants to ask us.

In this episode, we cover these topics:

· Glacier NP announced their vehicle entrance reservation plan for 2024,

· Grand Canyon NP is temporarily closing a stretch of Bright Angel Trail until mid-April 2024,

· We answer a question about where some of the best places in the national parks are to see moose,

· Our opinion on which airport is the best to fly into when visiting the Grand Canyon,

· Whether we have a goal to visit all the national parks in Canada,

· And more!

A few links related to the topics in this episode:

· Glacier NP’s 2024 vehicle entrance reservation plan,

· Detail about Grand Canyon NP’s Transcanyon Waterline Project, including the the 2024 Bright Angel Trail closure,

· And for all you Dirtlander fans, here is a link to our Bandana Moose t-shirts

The best way to support our podcast is to become a member of our Patreon account. Follow this link to check it out.

And don’t forget to check out our new online merch store and www.dirtlander.com.

Subscribe to The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen, and if you’ve enjoyed our show, please leave us a review or rating on Apple Podcasts. Five-star ratings help other listeners find our show.

Follow us on Instagram at @mattandkarensmith, on Twitter at @mattandkaren, on Facebook at dearbobands, or check out our blog at www.mattandkaren.com.

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#142: 20 Incredible Things to See and Do in Southern Utah, Outside the National Parks Nov 22, 2023

Southern Utah is home to five must-see national parks, but if you’re traveling to this part of the American Southwest, you won’t want to miss the other incredible things to see and do.

In this episode, we take you to 20 of our favorite places we’ve discovered over the years. Each site is worth exploring, from slot canyons to one-of-a-kind landscapes to priceless cultural treasures.

Places we discuss in this episode:

· Kanarra Falls

· Cedar Breaks National Monument

· Willis Creek Narrows

· Kodachrome Basin State Park

· Hole in the Rock Road

· Lower Calf Creek Falls Hike

· Goblin Valley State Park

· San Rafael Swell

· Dead Horse Point State Park

· Corona Arch

· Newspaper Rock State Historical Monument

· Hovenweep National Monument

· Bears Ears National Monument

· Natural Bridges National Monument

· Moki Dugway

· Goosenecks State Park

· Valley of the Gods

· Monument Valley

· Rainbow Bridge National Monument

· Buckskin Gulch

The best way to support our podcast is to become a member of our Patreon account. Follow this link to check it out.

And don’t forget to check out our new online merch store and www.dirtlander.com.

Subscribe to The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen, and if you’ve enjoyed our show, please leave us a review or rating on Apple Podcasts. Five-star ratings help other listeners find our show.

Follow us on Instagram at @mattandkarensmith, on Twitter at @mattandkaren, on Facebook at dearbobands, or check out our blog at www.mattandkaren.com.

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#141: Utah’s Remote and Remarkable Rainbow Bridge National Monument Nov 16, 2023

Find a comfortable seat and sit back as we take you with us on our boat tour to Rainbow Bridge National Monument, located just steps away from Lake Powell in a remote corner of southern Utah. On a recent road trip earlier this month, we were lucky enough to snag a reservation for a boat tour. And while the temps in early November can get downright cold on the lake, we had beautiful weather for our trip to this jaw-dropping national monument.

Revered by the Navajo as a sacred site, Rainbow Bridge's remote location makes it accessible only by a multi-day backpack trip or boat ride. This remarkable natural wonder, famous for its impressive size and striking geological formation, is a majestic sandstone arch. Carved by erosion over millions of years, it stands as one of the world's largest known natural bridges, spanning 275 feet and reaching a height of 290 feet.

In this episode, we talk about our experience visiting this natural wonder, stories of the early explorers to the area, and a bit of history about the formation of Lake Powell.

Links we discussed on this episode:

· Our 2023 Holiday Gift Guide,

· Where to get more info or to sign up for the Rainbow Bridge Boat Tour

The best way to support our podcast is to become a member of our Patreon account. Follow this link to check it out.

And don’t forget to check out our new online merch store and www.dirtlander.com.

Subscribe to The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen, and if you’ve enjoyed our show, please leave us a review or rating on Apple Podcasts. Five-star ratings help other listeners find our show.

Follow us on Instagram at @mattandkarensmith, on Twitter at @mattandkaren, on Facebook at dearbobands, or check out our blog at www.mattandkaren.com.

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#140: Northern California / Southern Oregon National Park Loop Nov 02, 2023

Listeners frequently ask us to create episodes about road trip itineraries, and in this episode, we outline a stunning 8-day driving loop through public lands in northern California and southern Oregon. On this journey, you’ll visit three national parks and two national monuments, while driving 800 miles through a beautiful swath of the American West that’s off the beaten path.

Starting in Redding, CA, we take you to Lassen Volcanic NP, Lava Beds NM, Crater Lake NP, and Oregon Caves NM before wrapping up the trip in Redwoods National and State Parks.

From some of the most dramatic volcanic landscapes in the country to the world’s tallest trees along the Pacific Coast and more, this road trip is everything public lands and nature lovers would want.

All this and more, coming up next!

A link we discussed on this episode:

· Where to watch Ken Burn’s documentary The American Buffalo

The best way to support our podcast is to become a member of our Patreon account. Follow this link to check it out.

And don’t forget to check out our new online merch store and www.dirtlander.com.

Subscribe to The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen, and if you’ve enjoyed our show, please leave us a review or rating on Apple Podcasts. Five-star ratings help other listeners find our show.

Follow us on Instagram at @mattandkarensmith, on Twitter at @mattandkaren, on Facebook at dearbobands, or check out our blog at www.mattandkaren.com.

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#139: Ghost Towns of the National Parks Oct 26, 2023

It’s that time of year again, so get ready to be scared out of your wits! Just kidding, but we do have a fun lineup of stories in this episode about ghost towns in the national parks. While you can find deserted towns, remnants of bygone boom/bust cycles, in many of our national parks, today we will focus on just a few.

From once thriving mining towns near Death Valley, to the site of a now-defunct copper mine in Wrangell-St. Elias National Park in Alaska, to the Thurmond Ghost Town in New River Gorge National Park, we share the history and the stories of paranormal activity in these historic places.

But no episode would be complete without a mention of Carlsbad Caverns National Park, so imagine how happy Karen was when she learned that this week marks the Centennial of this natural wonder. And fittingly for this time of year, we’re celebrating Bat Week. That’s right, Bat Week, an entire week dedicated each year to these flying mammals, who, as you’ll learn in this episode (spoiler alert), are NOT flying rats.

All this and more, coming up next!

The best way to support our podcast is to become a member of our Patreon account. Follow this link to check it out.

And don’t forget to check out our new online merch store and www.dirtlander.com.

Subscribe to The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen, and if you’ve enjoyed our show, please leave us a review or rating on Apple Podcasts. Five-star ratings help other listeners find our show.

Follow us on Instagram at @mattandkarensmith, on Twitter at @mattandkaren, on Facebook at dearbobands, or check out our blog at www.mattandkaren.com.

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#138: Mailbag! Van Life, Demoted National Parks, and More! Oct 19, 2023

In our Mailbag! episodes, we answer questions from listeners about the national parks, ranger-led tours, road trips, hiking, camping, backpacking, gear, relationships, and pretty much whatever anyone wants to ask us.

In this episode, we cover these topics:

· A change to the America the Beautiful park pass starting Jan. 1st, 2024,

· Whether we ever considered van life and our opinions on this lifestyle,

· Some safety considerations when camping in Big Bend National Park,

· A discussion about previously designated national parks that have since been demoted,

· And more!

The best way to support our podcast is to become a member of our Patreon account. Follow this link to check it out.

And don’t forget to check out our new online merch store and www.dirtlander.com.

Subscribe to The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen, and if you’ve enjoyed our show, please leave us a review or rating on Apple Podcasts. Five-star ratings help other listeners find our show.

Follow us on Instagram at @mattandkarensmith, on Twitter at @mattandkaren, on Facebook at dearbobands, or check out our blog at www.mattandkaren.com.

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#137: The Appalachian National Parks Road Trip Loop Oct 12, 2023

Buckle up, folks, for another road trip loop! In this episode, we’re taking you on an epic trip through the heart of Appalachia to four national parks and a national park service scenic byway.

We’ll travel to national parks in five states: Mammoth Cave in Kentucky, New River Gorge in West Virginia, Shenandoah in Virginia, and Great Smoky Mountains in North Carolina and Tennessee.

From the world’s longest cave to one of the oldest rivers on earth to the most visited US national park, this 1500-mile road trip has it all! And as a bonus, we share some of our favorite places to eat along the way and suggestions for a few other must-see destinations.

Here are a couple of links to items we mentioned in this episode:

· Tickets for cave tours at Mammoth Cave National Park

· Information about booking your New River Gorge Bridge Walk

The best way to support our podcast is to become a member of our Patreon account. Follow this link to check it out.

And don’t forget to check out our new online merch store and www.dirtlander.com.

Subscribe to The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen, and if you’ve enjoyed our show, please leave us a review or rating on Apple Podcasts. Five-star ratings help other listeners find our show.

Follow us on Instagram at @mattandkarensmith, on Twitter at @mattandkaren, on Facebook at dearbobands, or check out our blog at www.mattandkaren.com.

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#136: Great Basin National Park Oct 05, 2023

Great Basin National Park, located in eastern Nevada, is a stunning example of the diverse beauty of the American Southwest. In this episode, we talk about why you'll want to put a visit to this park in your wish bucket the next time you plan a trip to this part of the country.

Home to the mesmerizing Lehman Caves, Great Basin NP is one of the best least-visited parks in the NPS system. The caves, one of the park's main attractions, are an intricate cavern system complete with stalactites, stalagmites, and unique shield formations that have been forming for over a half million years. In this episode's History Channel, Karen delves into the unique story of how Lehman Caves became a National Monument more than a hundred years ago, long before the area became a national park.

We also describe the park that's above ground and its rich array of ecosystems and landscapes. From the Wheeler Peak Scenic Drive up to the Bristlecone pine forest and on to the only glacier in Nevada, we share some of our favorite things to do and see in the park.

And we take you to the small town of Ely, Nevada, just outside the park, where you can step back in time and experience its history by visiting the East Ely Nevada Northern Railway living museum, in addition to some very unique beehive charcoal ovens that were once used as hideouts for stagecoach bandits.

If stargazing is your thing, few parks are better than Great Basin for viewing a brilliant night sky. Recognized as a Dark Sky Park, the absence of light pollution allows for unparalleled views of the Milky Way, shooting stars, and distant galaxies, making this park one of the best places in the country to gaze at the heavens above.

Here are a couple of links to items we mentioned in this episode:

· Lehman Cave virtual tours

· In Ely, Nevada - Nevada Northern Railway Co. museum and train ride info.

The best way to support our podcast is to become a member of our Patreon account. Follow this link to check it out.

And don’t forget to check out our new online merch store and www.dirtlander.com.

Subscribe to The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen, and if you’ve enjoyed our show, please leave us a review or rating on Apple Podcasts. Five-star ratings help other listeners find our show.

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#135: Mailbag: Our Favorite National Park Campgrounds, and More! Sep 28, 2023

In our Mailbag! episodes, we answer questions from listeners about the national parks, ranger-led tours, road trips, hiking, camping, backpacking, gear, relationships, and pretty much whatever anyone wants to ask us.

In this episode, we cover these topics:

· Recommendations for public lands and hikes in Southern California’s desert that are good to visit in winter and not crowded,

· Cities and towns in the west that would make great home bases for working remotely and visiting national parks and other public lands,

· How we research a visit to a national park or other outdoor destination,

· Our favorite national park campgrounds,

· And more!

A link we promised to share:

· The NPS website where you can find all the NPS sites in each state

The best way to support our podcast is to become a member of our Patreon account. Follow this link to check it out.

And don’t forget to check out our new online merch store and www.dirtlander.com.

Subscribe to The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen, and if you’ve enjoyed our show, please leave us a review or rating on Apple Podcasts. Five-star ratings help other listeners find our show.

Follow us on Instagram at @mattandkarensmith, on Twitter at @mattandkaren, on Facebook at dearbobands, or check out our blog at www.mattandkaren.com.

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#134: Wrangell - St Elias National Park and the Road to McCarthy Sep 14, 2023

Hugging the eastern border of Alaska, Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve is a breathtaking example of raw and untamed nature. At a staggering 13.2 million acres, it holds the title of the largest national park in the United States. Its vast wilderness holds some of the most dramatic landscapes in the world, including the Wrangell Mountains and the coastal St. Elias Range, home to the second-highest peak in the U.S., Mount Saint Elias.

The park is not just known for its geology and natural wonders; it also preserves numerous historic sites, including the Kennecott Mines National Historic Landmark. At the end of a 59-mile gravel road leading to the park's interior, visitors can explore the well-preserved mining company town of Kennecott and the nearby equally historic town of McCarthy. These sites offer a glimpse into the life and times of the early miners and settlers in the region.

In this episode, we talk about our experience visiting this magnificent park and share our suggestions about what you might want to see and do in the park. There are even a few short history and geology channel mini-episodes as we describe this park's vastness and natural wonders.

Here are a couple of links to items we mentioned in this episode:

· Guided Wrangell-St. Elias Hiking Trips

· Kennecott Glacier Lake & River Rafting – 4 Hour Trip

The best way to support our podcast is to become a member of our Patreon account. Follow this link to check it out.

And don’t forget to check out our new online merch store and www.dirtlander.com.

Subscribe to The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen, and if you’ve enjoyed our show, please leave us a review or rating on Apple Podcasts. Five-star ratings help other listeners find our show.

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#133: Sand in Our Shoes: Sand Dune National Parks Sep 07, 2023

Our country’s national parks protect a huge variety of landscapes, and today, we’re playing in the sand in some of the national parks that feature sand dunes. These unique landforms offer a wide variety of activities, from hiking, saucer-sliding, tranquil sunset watching, and even camping.

We share stories of our adventures and misadventures in these incredible public lands. We also provide tips about other activities you might want to consider and suggestions for where to stay when visiting these parks.

Here are a few of the sites we discus in this episode:

· Great Sand Dunes National Park,

· White Sands National Park,

· Indiana Dunes National Park,

· And we mention a few more parks with amazing dunes!

Here are a couple links about things we mentioned in this episode:

· Every Kid Outdoors (Fourth-Grader parks pass)

· P.E.O. International (P.E.O. stands for Philanthropic Educational Organization)

The best way to support our podcast is to become a member of our Patreon account. Follow this link to check it out.

And don’t forget to check out our new online merch store and www.dirtlander.com.

Subscribe to The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen, and if you’ve enjoyed our show, please leave us a review or rating on Apple Podcasts. Five-star ratings help other listeners find our show.

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#132: Mailbag: Celebrating the National Park Service and Much More! Aug 25, 2023

In our Mailbag! episodes, we answer questions from listeners about the national parks, ranger-led tours, road trips, hiking, camping, backpacking, gear, relationships, and pretty much whatever anyone wants to ask us. In this episode, we cover these topics:

· The anniversary of the founding of the National Park Service

· A brief overview of our nation’s newest national monument: The Baaj Nwaavjo (BAAHJ – NUH-WAAHV-JOH) I’tah Kukveni (EE-TAH – KOOK-VENNY) Grand Canyon National Monument,

· Explanation of the NPS Junior Ranger Program,

· Suggestions for where to stay when visiting Black Canyon of the Gunnison NP,

· Thoughts on where to get your travel photos printed,

· Which games we play when on our public lands road trips,

· And more!

A link we promised to share:

· A list of the NPS sites that charge an entrance fee and how much

· Just Go Travel Studios where you can have high-quality posters made of your photos

The best way to support our podcast is to become a member of our Patreon account. Follow this link to check it out.

And don’t forget to check out our new online merch store and www.dirtlander.com.

Subscribe to The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen, and if you’ve enjoyed our show, please leave us a review or rating on Apple Podcasts. Five-star ratings help other listeners find our show.

Follow us on Instagram at @mattandkarensmith, on Twitter at @mattandkaren, on Facebook at dearbobands, or check out our blog at www.mattandkaren.com.

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#131: Our Favorite Cabins in the National Parks Aug 17, 2023

Nothing makes you feel like you’re in a national park more than staying in a rustic, historic cabin in the woods. (Or on an ocean bluff or the rim of the Grand Canyon.) In this episode, we describe many of our favorite cabins throughout the NPS system and recount our experiences staying in them.

With views of everything from stunning mountain lakes to the rugged Badlands and bugling elk and brown bears hanging out just yards from our front porches, these cabins offered us a unique and unforgettable park experience. It was fun for us to reminisce on all our cabin stays, and we hope our stories encourage you to check a few of them out for yourself as you travel through the national parks.

Here are a few of the cabins we discus in this episode:

· Lake Crescent Lodge – Olympic NP,

· Cedar Pass Lodge – Badlands NP,

· Zion Lodge,

· Grand Canyon Lodge on the North Rim,

· Bryce Canyon Lodge,

· Big Meadows – Shenandoah NP,

· Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel – Yellowstone NP,

· Colter Bay Village – Grand Teton NP,

· Brooks Camp Cabins – Katmai NP,

· And many, many more!

The best way to support our podcast is to become a member of our Patreon account. Follow this link to check it out.

And don’t forget to check out our new online merch store and www.dirtlander.com.

Subscribe to The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen, and if you’ve enjoyed our show, please leave us a review or rating on Apple Podcasts. Five-star ratings help other listeners find our show.

Follow us on Instagram at @mattandkarensmith, on Twitter at @mattandkaren, on Facebook at dearbobands, or check out our blog at www.mattandkaren.com.

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#130: Easy Bucket-List National Park Hikes Aug 10, 2023

Welcome to another episode of our podcast, where we're diving into the heart of America's most iconic national parks and highlighting some easy bucket-list hikes that are both breathtaking and accessible. Whether you're an avid hiker looking for a leisurely trek or a newbie just starting to dip your toes into the world of hiking, our list has got you covered.

Imagine standing beneath the massive rock structures of The Windows and Turret Arch in Arches National Park or gazing up at the ancient trees along the Congress Trail in Sequoia National Park. Envision yourself wandering through Bryce Canyon National Park's hoodoos on the Queens Garden/Navajo Loop or catching glimpses of Mt. Rainier as you hike the tranquil Naches Peak Loop. These are just a few of the many hikes we cover in this episode. So, lace up your hiking boots, grab your trail mix, and let's embark on an unforgettable journey together!

The best way to support our podcast is to become a member of our Patreon account. Follow this link to check it out.

And don’t forget to check out our new online merch store and www.dirtlander.com.

Subscribe to The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen, and if you’ve enjoyed our show, please leave us a review or rating on Apple Podcasts. Five-star ratings help other listeners find our show.

Follow us on Instagram at @mattandkarensmith, on Twitter at @mattandkaren, on Facebook at dearbobands, or check out our blog at www.mattandkaren.com.

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#129: Archive Episode, Top-Rated Hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park Aug 03, 2023

In our Archive Episodes, we focus on a specific destination or topic we’ve covered in a previous episode, re-play that portion of the show, and add our updated comments. Today, we’re re-sharing our best hiking recommendations in Rocky Mountain National Park. RMNP is a summertime favorite for many outdoor enthusiasts and family vacationers, so if you’re heading there this summer, hopefully you’ll find some valuable tips here.

We also share the feedback we’ve heard about the park’s timed entry permit system they have in place during the busiest months of the year. For information on the permit requirements and updates on road conditions affecting wait time and lines to get into the park, check out the park’s website here.

The best way to support our podcast is to become a member of our Patreon account. Follow this link to check it out.

And don’t forget to check out our new online merch store and www.dirtlander.com.

Subscribe to The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen, and if you’ve enjoyed our show, please leave us a review or rating on Apple Podcasts. Five-star ratings help other listeners find our show.

Follow us on Instagram at @mattandkarensmith, on Twitter at @mattandkaren, on Facebook at dearbobands, or check out our blog at www.mattandkaren.com.

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#128: Bug Off: Five Products for Hikers and Campers to Keep Insects at Bay Jul 27, 2023

In this archive episode we’ve pulled together a couple excerpts from previous shows where we talked about our challenges with bugs while hiking and camping. Today, we’ve added additional information about five products we’ve used in the past on our outdoor adventures that have made our experiences much more bearable.

From headnets to lotions to a product you can spray on your gear to keep the insects away, we cover all our favorites and more. Don’t let your fear of bugs or the annoyance of their stinging and biting keep you from enjoying your favorite outdoor activities. After listening to this episode, you’ll have new confidence to go outside and reclaim your piece of nature.

The best way to support our podcast is to become a member of our Patreon account. Follow this link to check it out.

And don’t forget to check out our new online merch store and www.dirtlander.com.

Subscribe to The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen, and if you’ve enjoyed our show, please leave us a review or rating on Apple Podcasts. Five-star ratings help other listeners find our show.

Follow us on Instagram at @mattandkarensmith, on Twitter at @mattandkaren, on Facebook at dearbobands, or check out our blog at www.mattandkaren.com.

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#127: Archive Episode, The Beaches of Olympic National Park Jul 20, 2023

Our Archive Episodes focus on a specific destination or topic we’ve covered in a previous episode. We re-play that portion of the show and add our updated comments. Today, we’re exploring the Pacific Coast beaches of Olympic National Park. Unlike any other coastline in the US, this stretch of wild and rugged beaches is a must-see for any visit to the park.

This episode includes an excerpt from episode #19, where we shared our experiences about camping on Shi Shi Beach, the furthest north beach in the park. We’ve also added here descriptions of the park’s other beaches, tips on how to get to each, what you might see there, and a little about the accommodations in the area.

Here are a couple of links we mention in this episode:

· The park’s webpage about tidepool activities

· NOAA’s tide table resource page

The best way to support our podcast is to become a member of our Patreon account. Follow this link to check it out.

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#126: Archive Episode, Gateway Arch National Park Jul 13, 2023

In our Archive Episodes, we focus on a specific destination or topic we’ve covered in a previous episode, re-play that portion of the show, and add our updated comments. Today, we take you back to Gateway Arch National Park, one of our newest national parks.

We’ve included in this episode an excerpt from episode #31 where we talked about our experience riding to the top of the arch and added a bit more information about the history of the park, the new visitor center and museum, and the area of the city surrounding this magnificent gateway to the west.

Here are a couple of links we mention in this episode:

· Eero Saarinen’s Tulip Chair

· Where to buy tickets to ride to the top of the arch

The best way to support our podcast is to become a member of our Patreon account. Follow this link to check it out.

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Subscribe to The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen, and if you’ve enjoyed our show, please leave us a review or rating on Apple Podcasts. Five-star ratings help other listeners find our show.

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#125: Archive Episode, The Enchanted Many Glacier Area of Glacier National Park Jul 06, 2023

In our Archive Episodes, we focus on a specific destination or topic we’ve covered in a previous episode, re-play that portion of the show, and add our updated comments. Today, we take you back to the Many Glacier area of Glacier National Park, one of the most concentrated regions of alpine splendor you’ll find anywhere in the national park system.

From our favorite hikes to the various lodging options, we give you all the information you need to plan your visit to this special place.

The best way to support our podcast is to become a member of our Patreon account. Follow this link to check it out.

And don’t forget to check out our new online merch store and www.dirtlander.com.

Subscribe to The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen, and if you’ve enjoyed our show, please leave us a review or rating on Apple Podcasts. Five-star ratings help other listeners find our show.

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#124: Mailbag! Our Thoughts on Bigfoot and More Jun 29, 2023

In our Mailbag! episodes, we answer questions from listeners about the national parks, ranger-led tours, road trips, hiking, camping, backpacking, gear, relationships, and pretty much whatever anyone wants to ask us. In this episode, we cover these topics:

· How we determined the order in which we would visit all the national parks,

· Have we ever seen a Bigfoot, and do we think he (she) is real,

· Where might you go to experience a white Christmas in a national park,

· Why posted trail distances are always different than what your GPS app says,

· Best national park-themed baby names,

· And more!

A couple of links we promised to share:

· Patterson – Gimlin Bigfoot footage

· Clallam Transit bus information to Hurricane Ridge in Olympic NP

· Link to Karen’s Bigfoot BELIEVER t-shirt at Dirtlander.com

The best way to support our podcast is to become a member of our Patreon account. Follow this link to check it out.

And don’t forget to check out our new online merch store and www.dirtlander.com.

Subscribe to The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen, and if you’ve enjoyed our show, please leave us a review or rating on Apple Podcasts. Five-star ratings help other listeners find our show.

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#123: Visiting North Cascade’s Hidden Gem: Stehekin Jun 22, 2023

A trip to Stehekin, tucked away in a valley in the North Cascades National Park complex, feels like a visit to an island. But instead of being completely surrounded by water, this remote village is hemmed in by spectacular alpine backcountry, making it impossible for cars or trucks to drive into or out of town.

Once frequented only by Native Americans on their trek through the mountains, this peaceful valley has been the site of sparse but consistent settlement since the late 19th century. With the National Park Service protecting the pristine area surrounding the few parcels of private land, the area feels like a land time forgot.

In this episode, we talk about our recent visit to Stehekin, what we did, where we stayed, and a bit of history about this unique area. We also provide information about other overnight accommodations in the area, transportation options, and a tip about where to find what we think are the best cinnamon rolls in the state of Washington. Join us for all this and more!

Here’s a link you might be interested in:

· Lake Chelan Boat Co.

The best way to support our podcast is to become a member of our Patreon account. Follow this link to check it out.

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Subscribe to The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen, and if you’ve enjoyed our show, please leave us a review or rating on Apple Podcasts. Five-star ratings help other listeners find our show.

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#122: The Underground World of Jewel Cave and Wind Cave Jun 15, 2023

The Black Hills of South Dakota are home to not one but two of the world’s longest cave systems. Both in the National Park system, Jewel Cave National Monument and Wind Cave National Park are must-see destinations.

Located just 20 minutes away from each other, these two caves are different in so many ways. One features the world’s largest concentration of rare boxwork formations and the other glitters and sparkles with calcite crystals.

In this episode, we talk about what makes each cave unique, how they were discovered and developed more than a hundred years ago, and some important things to know before you go.

The best way to support our podcast is to become a member of our Patreon account. Follow this link to check it out.

And don’t forget to check out our new online merch store and www.dirtlander.com.

Subscribe to The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen, and if you’ve enjoyed our show, please leave us a review or rating on Apple Podcasts. Five-star ratings help other listeners find our show.

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#121: Five Fabulous State Parks Jun 08, 2023

State parks are a special kind of public land, beloved by locals but often as spectacular and exciting as their national park cousins. In episode #30, we featured six of our favorites, but our list of fabulous state parks is too long to end there. Here, we talk about five more must-see public lands.

From towering waterfalls you can walk under to breathtaking views of the churning ocean below, these places are worth visiting on your next road trip.

In this episode, we cover these five state parks:

· Silver Falls SP, Oregon

· Deception Pass SP, Washington

· Babcock SP, West Virginia

· Makoshika SP, Montana

· Cathedral Gorge SP, Nevada

The best way to support our podcast is to become a member of our Patreon account. Follow this link to check it out.

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Subscribe to The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen, and if you’ve enjoyed our show, please leave us a review or rating on Apple Podcasts. Five-star ratings help other listeners find our show.

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#120: The Beartooth Highway Jun 02, 2023

Since its completion in 1936, the Beartooth Highway has thrilled millions of visitors with jaw-dropping views of one of the most beautiful and wild areas in the lower 48 states. It seems fitting that a road built 90 years ago to take travelers to and from Yellowstone National Park would be as spectacular as the park itself.

In this episode, we talk about the stretch of highway that Charles Kuralt once called “the most beautiful roadway in America.” This 68-mile section of U.S. Highway 212, which runs between Red Lodge and Cooke City, Montana, climbs to almost 11,000 ft at Beartooth Pass, providing road trippers with panoramic views of several stunning mountain ranges, and of course, Beartooth Peak.

This scenic drive has become one of our favorite activities whenever we’re in the area, and no trip to Yellowstone National Park is complete without experiencing this amazing and unique landscape. That is, during the few summer months in which the highway is cleared of snow and open to traffic.

The best way to support our podcast is to become a member of our Patreon account. Follow this link to check it out.

And don’t forget to check out our new online merch store and www.dirtlander.com.

Subscribe to The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen, and if you’ve enjoyed our show, please leave us a review or rating on Apple Podcasts. Five-star ratings help other listeners find our show.

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#119: Mailbag! May 25, 2023

In our Mailbag! episodes, we answer questions from listeners about the national parks, ranger-led tours, road trips, hiking, camping, backpacking, gear, relationships, and pretty much whatever anyone wants to ask us. In this episode, we cover these topics:

· Which national parks were more than we expected when we visited them,

· How to fit more passport stamps in your passport book when the pages fill up,

· What activities to do and sites to visit in a camper van on the way from Dead Horse Point State Park to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon,

· Tips for snagging an NPS lodge cancellation when they’re all booked up,

· What are the chances the Quinault Lodge in Olympic NP, whose rooms are not airconditioned, will be too warm at night for sleeping in June,

· Whether Mount Rainier NP will impose a timed-entry reservation system and if it will go into effect in 2023,

· Do we think it’s still worth visiting Mesa Verde if you can’t get tickets for the ranger-led tours,

· What are our biggest regrets when we look back at our journey to all the national parks,

· And more!

A link we promised to share:

· Find the Expander Pack for your National Parks Passport here

The best way to support our podcast is to become a member of our Patreon account. Follow this link to check it out.

And don’t forget to check out our new online merch store and www.dirtlander.com.

Subscribe to The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen, and if you’ve enjoyed our show, please leave us a review or rating on Apple Podcasts. Five-star ratings help other listeners find our show.

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#118: Where the Bison Roam May 18, 2023

The American Bison symbolizes a bygone era when the Great Plains, with their millions of acres of tallgrass prairie, were undisturbed by railroads, fences, farmland, and towns. While we nearly squandered this extraordinary natural resource into extinction, instead of becoming a forgotten footnote about a lost wonder, our national mammal is thriving in numbers not seen in over a hundred years.

Today, the tale of the bison is one of the greatest success stories in American history. Yet the story could have ended very differently if it weren’t for the efforts of a small number of people who took it upon themselves to protect this magnificent species and bring them back from the brink of disaster.

In this episode, we take you to several public lands where bison are protected and free to roam and share a few stories about the people who helped save them. As a complement to our Episode #13: The Great American Bison Road Trip, we talk about new places we did not cover in our previous episode, places you’ll want to consider adding to your itinerary as you explore our incredible public lands.

The places we discuss in this episode include the following:

· Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge, Oklahoma

· Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve, Kansas

· Antelope Island State Park, Utah

· Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge (NIGH-oh-brare-ah), Nebraska

· The Bison Range (formerly known as The National Bison Range), Montana

· Catalina Island, California

· Caprock Canyons State Park, Texas

Thank you to all our supporters on Patreon! Our Patreon account is now up and running with bonus content. Follow this link to check it out.

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Subscribe to The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen, and if you’ve enjoyed our show, please leave us a review or rating on Apple Podcasts. Five-star ratings help other listeners find our show.

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#117: 12 US Wonders to See in Your Lifetime May 04, 2023

America is home to some of the world's most awe-inspiring landscapes and natural marvels. In this episode, we've chosen twelve stunning destinations that are also relatively easy for most people to experience. While there are many more beautiful sights to behold in the US beyond our list, the places we've included here are ones we feel everyone should see at least once in their lifetime.

Join us as we give you an overview of each place, provide tips and suggestions for making the most of your visit, and share a few of our experiences visiting these beautiful sights.

The places we discuss in this episode include the following:

· Grand Canyon - Arizona

· Horseshoe Bend - Arizona

· Antelope Canyon - Arizona

· Delicate Arch, Arches NP - Utah

· Yosemite Valley - California

· The Largest Sequoias Trees in Kings and Sequoia NPs - California

· Devils Tower National Monument - Wyoming

· Crater Lake, Crater Lake NP - Oregon

· Going to the Sun Road, Alpine Section, Glacier NP - Montana

· Mount Rainier, Sunrise Area, Mount Rainier NP - Washington

· Bryce Canyon Amphitheater, Bryce Canyon NP - Utah

· Grand Prismatic Spring, Yellowstone NP, Wyoming

Thank you to all our supporters on Patreon! Our Patreon account is now up and running with bonus content. Follow this link to check it out.

Don’t forget to check out our new online merch store and www.dirtlander.com.

Subscribe to The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen, and if you’ve enjoyed our show, please leave us a review or rating on Apple Podcasts. Five-star ratings help other listeners find our show.

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#116: Mailbag! Visiting Channel Islands National Park and More Apr 27, 2023

In our Mailbag! episodes, we answer questions from listeners about the national parks, ranger-led tours, road trips, hiking, camping, backpacking, gear, relationships, and pretty much whatever anyone wants to ask us. In this episode, we cover these topics:

· Visiting Channel Islands National Park, what to do, where to stay,

· Hiking suggestions for Voyageurs National Park,

· Whether we ever organize group hikes,

· Advice for women who hike solo in public lands,

· Gear that women can use to assist with peeing outdoors, yep, you read that correctly,

· And more!

A link we promised to share:

· A list of hiking trails in Voyageurs National Park

The best way to support our podcast is to become a member of our Patreon account. Follow this link to check it out.

And don’t forget to check out our new online merch store and www.dirtlander.com.

Subscribe to The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen, and if you’ve enjoyed our show, please leave us a review or rating on Apple Podcasts. Five-star ratings help other listeners find our show.

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#115: National Parks and the Civilian Conservation Corps Apr 13, 2023

This year marks the 90th anniversary of the establishment of the Civilian Conservation Corps. Started in 1933 during the Great Depression as part of President Roosevelt's New Deal Program, the CCC was created to put young men back to work. However, this 9-year program did more than provide employment during difficult economic times. It was instrumental in improving our national parks and forests and establishing hundreds of state parks. Many of the facilities we enjoy today are the result of the incredible work done by the CCC.

In this episode, we talk about some of the CCC’s many accomplishments, give you a glimpse into what life was like as a member of the corps, and talk about a program that honors the members of the CCC for whom we owe a debt of gratitude.

Links:

· Here is the website where you can find a list of all the CCC Worker Statues

· And, follow this link to learn about the 21st Century Conservation Service Corps

Thank you to all our supporters on Patreon! Our Patreon account is now up and running with many bonus audio and video episodes. Follow this link to check it out.

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#114: Theodore Roosevelt National Park Apr 06, 2023

It’s unlikely that anyone has had a more significant positive impact on our U.S. public lands than Teddy Roosevelt, which is why it’s fitting that he has a national park named after him. Tucked into the Badlands of North Dakota, the park celebrates and memorializes the life of this remarkable conservationist.

In this episode, we discuss Roosevelt’s experiences as a young man living in North Dakota, his prodigious record of creating and protecting public lands, and his role in helping save our National Mammal, the bison, from near extinction.

We also talk about the various units of the park, activities you’ll want to consider doing in each, and information about where to stay and the best times of the year to visit.

Link to the book about Roosevelt’s adventure in the Amazon after he was President:

The River of Doubt by Millard, Candice

(Amazon may pay us a marketing fee if you use this link to purchase this book.)

Our Patreon account is now up and running with bonus content. Follow this link to check it out.

Don’t forget to check out our new online merch store and www.dirtlander.com.

Subscribe to The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen, and if you’ve enjoyed our show, please leave us a review or rating on Apple Podcasts. Five-star ratings help other listeners find our show.

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#113: Must-See Navajo Parks Mar 30, 2023

The Navajo Nation is home to one-of-a-kind natural wonders and irreplaceable cultural treasures. It’s also where you can find several parks worth putting on your bucket list. In this episode, we share our experiences and suggestions for making the most of your trips to Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park, Canyon de Chelly National Monument, and Navajo National Monument, all on Navajo land in northern Arizona. While Monument Valley is run solely by Navajo Nation Parks & Recreation, the others are managed jointly by the National Parks Service and the Navajo Nation.

And as a bonus, we discuss what to look forward to if you add a visit to Hubbell Trading Post National Historic Site, also a must-see National Park Service site about a half hour south of Canyon de Chelly, in Ganado, Arizona.

Thank you to all our supporters on Patreon! Our Patreon account is now up and running with bonus content. Follow this link to check it out.

Don’t forget to check out our new online merch store and www.dirtlander.com.

Subscribe to The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen, and if you’ve enjoyed our show, please leave us a review or rating on Apple Podcasts. Five-star ratings help other listeners find our show.

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#112: Mailbag! Mar 23, 2023

In our Mailbag! episodes, we answer questions from listeners about the national parks, ranger-led tours, road trips, hiking, camping, backpacking, gear, relationships, and pretty much whatever anyone wants to ask us. In this episode, we cover these topics:

· How to tell if a trail or road has steep drop-offs before starting your trip, and how to stay calm when you’re afraid of heights in these situations,

· Tips on how to keep track of your bucket list items and where the phrase “wish bucket” came from

· Suggestions on footwear for hiking the Sliding Sands trail in Haleakala National Park

· Where to find accessibility information about trails, sights, and facilities in the national parks, and a few suggestions as to the most accessible parks in the NPS system,

· And more!

A few links we promised to share:

· Where to find info about accessibility in the national parks

· A list of the most and least accessible national parks from the AgingInPlace.org website

· A link to info about the America the Beautiful Access Pass

The best way to support our podcast is to become a member of our Patreon account. Follow this link to check it out.

And don’t forget to check out our new online merch store and www.dirtlander.com.

Subscribe to The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen, and if you’ve enjoyed our show, please leave us a review or rating on Apple Podcasts. Five-star ratings help other listeners find our show.

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#111: Driving Tour of Washington's National Parks, Part Two Mar 09, 2023

The fun doesn’t stop at the end of the Cascade Loop Scenic Byway. Our road trip continues, so grab some extra snacks on Whidbey Island and head west with us as we travel to Olympic and Mount Rainier National Parks.

The first stop is Olympic National Park, where you can explore alpine peaks, moss-covered rainforest trails, or rugged beaches along the coast of the Pacific Ocean. Better yet, take your time and experience them all.

After Olympic, we’ll drive through Washington’s state capital, Olympia, before heading east to the most majestic active volcano in the lower forty-eight, Mount Rainier. Here you’ll have opportunities to marvel at the historic park buildings near the southwest entrance before winding your way up the park road to Paradise. This mile-high area of the park is laced with spectacular hiking trails, each with stunning, close-up views of Rainier.

The drive continues to other regions of the park that you won’t want to miss, including the equally stunning Sunrise area, where hiking above the tree line will give you full-on views of Mount Rainier from fresh angles.

Here’s a link to the map of the loop that Karen promised Matt would draw.

Our Patreon account is now up and running with bonus content. Follow this link to check it out.

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#110: Washington's Cascade Loop Scenic Byway, Part One Mar 02, 2023

Ah, the Cascade Loop Scenic Byway. This 440-mile route winds through the heart of Washington State's Cascade Mountains, revealing an abundance of natural beauty that is truly awe-inspiring. From the shore of Lake Chelan to the rugged peaks of North Cascades National Park, the landscape is both spectacular and diverse.

But the Cascade Loop is more than just a showcase of nature's wonders. We'll tell you about charming small towns along the way that offer a glimpse into the region's rich history and culture. Places like Leavenworth, with its Bavarian architecture, sausages and lively festivals, and Winthrop, with its Old West charm and cowboy spirit. Plus, Matt will take you on a culinary tour of the bakeries along the route and explain the differences between cinnamon rolls and morning buns.

In this episode, part one of our two-part series on the scenic drives through all three national parks in northwest Washington, we discuss the logistics and highlights of the Cascade Loop Scenic Byway.

Here’s a link to the map of the loop that Karen promised Matt would draw.

Our Patreon account is now up and running with bonus content. Follow this link to check it out.

Don’t forget to check out our new online merch store and www.dirtlander.com.

Subscribe to The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen, and if you’ve enjoyed our show, please leave us a review or rating on Apple Podcasts. Five-star ratings help other listeners find our show.

Follow us on Instagram at @mattandkarensmith, on Twitter at @mattandkaren, on Facebook at dearbobands, or check out our blog at www.mattandkaren.com.

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#109: Mailbag! Devils Tower, Carlsbad Caverns, and More Feb 23, 2023

In our Mailbag! episodes, we answer questions from listeners about the national parks, ranger-led tours, road trips, hiking, camping, backpacking, gear, relationships, and pretty much whatever anyone wants to ask us. In this episode, we cover these topics:

· Whether Devils Tower is worth the 2-hour drive when visiting the Black Hills,

· Advice on an Alaska bucket-list trip,

· Rules about e-bikes in the national parks,

· Which tour tickets to buy at Carlsbad Caverns,

· Which hotel is best to stay at outside Bryce Canyon National Park,

· And more!

Our Patreon account is now up and running with bonus content. Follow this link to check it out.

Don’t forget to check out our new online merch store and www.dirtlander.com.

Subscribe to The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen, and if you’ve enjoyed our show, please leave us a review or rating on Apple Podcasts. Five-star ratings help other listeners find our show.

Follow us on Instagram at @mattandkarensmith, on Twitter at @mattandkaren, on Facebook at dearbobands, or check out our blog at www.mattandkaren.com.

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#108: Great Smoky Mountains National Park Feb 16, 2023

Situated in both North Carolina and Tennessee, this park is a natural wonderland that seems too good to be true. It's a place where misty mountains rise from the forest floor, and crystal-clear streams cut through verdant valleys. With over 500,000 acres of rugged terrain, it's easy to get lost in the park's boundless beauty. In this episode, we discuss our favorite things to see and do when visiting the park and other highlights you'll want to put on your bucket list. Whether you're looking for stunning vistas or quiet solitude, the Smokies have it all: spectacular vistas, rushing streams and waterfalls, historic structures, and quiet groves of old-growth forest. It's no wonder it's the most visited national park in America.

Here are links where you can find more information related to this episode:

· The Park It Forward program,

· Info about LeConte Lodge and how to make reservations,

· Info about the Blue Ridge Parkway,

· And you can check out Great Smoky Mountains NP’s website here

Our Patreon account is now up and running with bonus content. Follow this link for more information about how to join.

Don’t forget to check out our new online merch store and www.dirtlander.com.

Subscribe to The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen, and if you’ve enjoyed our show, please leave us a review or rating on Apple Podcasts. Five-star ratings help other listeners find our show.

Follow us on Instagram at @mattandkarensmith, on Twitter at @mattandkaren, on Facebook at dearbobands, or check out our blog at www.mattandkaren.com.

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#107: Isle Royale National Park Feb 02, 2023

Isle Royale National Park is a serene, isolated wilderness in the middle of Lake Superior, making it the least-visited national park in the contiguous United States. Despite its remote location, those who make the journey are rewarded with breathtaking scenery, fascinating wildlife, and a chance to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of daily life. In this episode, we delve into the details of visiting Isle Royale, including transportation options, various activities to experience, and the best time of year to visit. We also discuss the available accommodation options, the ideal length of stay, and provide insights into the rich history of the park. Whether you're an avid outdoor enthusiast or simply seeking a peaceful escape, Isle Royale National Park has something to offer.

Here are links where you can find more information about Isle Royale National Park:

· On this site you can learn more about the project to study the wolves and moose on the island

· The park’s webpage with links to all the transportation options for getting to and from the island

· Information about the Isle Royale Queen IV boat from Copper Harbor, MI

· Check out the park’s entire website here

Our Patreon account is now up and running with bonus content. Follow this link to check it out.

Don’t forget to check out our new online merch store and www.dirtlander.com.

Subscribe to The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen, and if you’ve enjoyed our show, please leave us a review or rating on Apple Podcasts. Five-star ratings help other listeners find our show.

Follow us on Instagram at @mattandkarensmith, on Twitter at @mattandkaren, on Facebook at dearbobands, or check out our blog at www.mattandkaren.com.

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#106: Mailbag! Shenandoah NP in a Weekend, and More Jan 25, 2023

In our Mailbag! episodes, we answer questions from listeners about the national parks, ranger-led tours, road trips, hiking, camping, backpacking, gear, relationships, and pretty much whatever anyone wants to ask us. In this episode, we cover these topics:

· A listener asks our opinion on whether to spend a weekend in Olympic NP or Shenandoah NP (the title of this episode is a clue to our answer),

· Suggestions about which of the three Washington national parks would be best to visit when you have an extra two days on route to an Alaskan cruise,

· Would we recommend a blow-up air mattress or cots for a family of four just getting started camping,

· Which place is most likely to become the next U.S. national park,

· Should parents bring snake gaiters for their young sons on a trip to Big Bend NP,

· And more!

Our Patreon account is now up and running with bonus content. Follow this link to check it out.

Don’t forget to check out our new online merch store and www.dirtlander.com.

Subscribe to The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen, and if you’ve enjoyed our show, please leave us a review or rating on Apple Podcasts. Five-star ratings help other listeners find our show.

Follow us on Instagram at @mattandkarensmith, on Twitter at @mattandkaren, on Facebook at dearbobands, or check out our blog at www.mattandkaren.com.

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#105: Chaco Culture National Historical Park Jan 19, 2023

Many consider Chaco Culture the crown jewel of the ancient Puebloan ruins in the American Southwest. It's a must-see add-on to any adventure in the Four Corners area. The sixteen archeological sites in the park tell a story of a bustling civilization where thousands of people lived from about 850 to 1250 A.D. But much is still left to be discovered about their lives and why they abruptly left to find shelter elsewhere among the cliffs of the desert. In this episode, we talk about our visit to Chaco, a bit about the history of the place, some of the activities you might want to consider when there, and much more!

Here are links where you can find more information about Chaco Culture National Historical Park:

· If you want to see historic photos from Pueblo Bonito, check out the website Chacoarchive.org

· Here’s a link to the NPS Museum Management Program page about Chaco Culture

· Check out the park’s NPS site here

· UNESCO’s online description of Chaco also has links to more information

· And did you know that Chaco Culture is featured on a U.S. Quarter? Check it out on the U.S. Mint’s website

Our Patreon account is now up and running with bonus content. Follow this link to check it out.

Don’t forget to check out our new online merch store and www.dirtlander.com.

Subscribe to The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen, and if you’ve enjoyed our show, please leave us a review or rating on Apple Podcasts. Five-star ratings help other listeners find our show.

Follow us on Instagram at @mattandkarensmith, on Twitter at @mattandkaren, on Facebook at dearbobands, or check out our blog at www.mattandkaren.com.

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#104: Planning Your Trips to Alaska’s National Parks Jan 05, 2023

Alaska is home to eight national parks, each unique and stunning. And if visiting them is on your bucket list, planning your trips may seem daunting. It was for us. Alaska is wild and beautiful, and its parks are nothing like those in the lower 48. Only three of the eight can be accessed by roads, and two are above the Arctic Circle. In this episode, we share what we learned from visiting these parks. We talk about how to get to each of them, what time of year you might want to visit, and give suggestions for activities you’ll want to consider. All this and more!

Our Patreon account is now up and running with bonus content. Follow this link to check it out.

Don’t forget to check out our new online merch store and www.dirtlander.com.

Subscribe to The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen, and if you’ve enjoyed our show, please leave us a review or rating on Apple Podcasts. Five-star ratings help other listeners find our show.

Follow us on Instagram at @mattandkarensmith, on Twitter at @mattandkaren, on Facebook at dearbobands, or check out our blog at www.mattandkaren.com.

To advertise on The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast, email us at mattandkarensmith@gmail.com.

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#103: Twelve Great National Parks for Snowshoeing Dec 29, 2022

We used to think that winter was for hunkering down inside and planning for warm-weather activities in the parks. But that all changed one day when we rented snowshoes in Yellowstone on a zero-degree February day. After an exciting day experiencing the uncrowded backcountry covered in a deep blanket of snow, we were hooked. The scenery was breathtaking, and we had several wildlife encounters that would not have been possible in warmer months. Now, we make a point to snowshoe at least a few times each winter in our incredible public lands. In today’s episode, we talk about some of the basics of getting started snowshoeing and suggest trails to explore in twelve national parks that are great for this outdoor winter activity.

Our Patreon account is now up and running with bonus content. Follow this link to check it out.

Don’t forget to check out our new online merch store and www.dirtlander.com.

Subscribe to The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen, and if you’ve enjoyed our show, please leave us a review or rating on Apple Podcasts. Five-star ratings help other listeners find our show.

Follow us on Instagram at @mattandkarensmith, on Twitter at @mattandkaren, on Facebook at dearbobands, or check out our blog at www.mattandkaren.com.

To advertise on The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast, email us at mattandkarensmith@gmail.com.

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#102: Mailbag! White Sands, Hot Springs, and More Dec 08, 2022

In our Mailbag! episodes, we answer questions from listeners about the national parks, ranger-led tours, road trips, hiking, camping, backpacking, gear, relationships, and pretty much whatever anyone wants to ask us. In this episode, we cover these topics:

· How much time to spend and what to do when visiting White Sands NP,

· A brief overview of Hot Springs National Park, including how the park service has re-purposed a few of the park’s historic original bathhouses,

· Short discussion about the national parks on the east coast,

· Answering a few questions from one of our younger listeners, and

· Discussing whether our books are appropriate for children

Our Patreon account is now up and running with bonus content. Follow this link to check it out.

Don’t forget to check out our new online merch store and www.dirtlander.com.

Subscribe to The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen, and if you’ve enjoyed our show, please leave us a review or rating on Apple Podcasts. Five-star ratings help other listeners find our show.

Follow us on Instagram at @mattandkarensmith, on Twitter at @mattandkaren, on Facebook at dearbobands, or check out our blog at www.mattandkaren.com.

To advertise on The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast, email us at mattandkarensmith@gmail.com.

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#101: Grandma Joy’s Road Trip Nov 24, 2022

Join us for an inspiring conversation with 92-year-old Grandma Joy and her grandson Brad, who are on a journey to visit all 63 national parks. After taking her on a camping trip seven years ago in Smoky Mountains National Park so she could see the mountains for the first time, Brad realized Grandma Joy was the perfect travel partner. Their next adventure was a 4-week road trip to visit 21 national parks, and they’re still going strong. With only one national park left to visit, their story of adventure and discovery is not just inspiring, it's a lesson in the power of gratitude. What a perfect message for a Thanksgiving Day episode!

Here are a few helpful links about some of the topics in this episode:

· Follow Brad and Grandma Joy’s travels on Instagram here

· Or check out their Facebook page here

· Link to our Patreon account Intro video

· Where to subscribe to our Patreon account

· And, check out our fun and inspiring apparel at Dirtlander.com

Subscribe to The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen, and if you’ve enjoyed our show, please leave us a review or rating on Apple Podcasts. Five-star ratings help other listeners find our show.

Follow us on Instagram at @mattandkarensmith, on Twitter at @mattandkaren, on Facebook at dearbobands, or check out our blog at www.mattandkaren.com.

To advertise on The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast, email us at mattandkarensmith@gmail.com.

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#100: Glacier Bay National Park Nov 17, 2022

Over two hundred years ago, a 4,000-foot-thick glacier covered what is now Glacier Bay National Park. Since then, the massive glacier has receded, leaving us a spectacular bay and landscape to explore. Sitting a mere 50 miles west of Alaska’s capital city of Juneau, the park is now home to a diverse array of fantastic wildlife both in the sea and on land. Easier to get to than you might think, Glacier Bay NP is best visited in the summer months when you can stay at the lodge and take an all-day, park-led boat tour through the bay. In this episode, we talk about our experiences visiting the park and provide tips and tricks to help you plan your visit.

Here are a few helpful links about some of the topics in this episode:

· Glacier Bay Lodge’s website where you can find information about the lodge and book a boat tour through the park

· Video on the park’s website about the Huna Tribal House dedication

· Link to our 2022 Annual Gift Guide

· Link to our Patreon account Intro video

· Where to subscribe to our Patreon account

· And, check out our fun and inspiring apparel at Dirtlander.com

Subscribe to The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen, and if you’ve enjoyed our show, please leave us a review or rating on Apple Podcasts. Five-star ratings help other listeners find our show.

Follow us on Instagram at @mattandkarensmith, on Twitter at @mattandkaren, on Facebook at dearbobands, or check out our blog at www.mattandkaren.com.

To advertise on The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast, email us at mattandkarensmith@gmail.com.

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#99: Matt and Karen’s Annual Gift Guide Nov 10, 2022

Are you ready for the most wonderful time of the year? We’re here to help you fill out your holiday shopping list before that last-minute panic sets in. And while you’re at it, you might even find an item or three to suggest to Santa for yourself. In this episode, we’ve put together a collection of our favorite travel-related items that make perfect gifts. And once the holidays are over, you can revisit this list throughout the year when you need that perfect gift idea for the outdoorsy person in your life.

Below are links to all the items we mention in this episode. You can also find these items on our blog at www.mattandkaren.com.

Please note that we may be paid a marketing fee if you buy a product through one of the links below but doing so does not affect the price you pay. Any fees we earn from these links help support our podcast. Thank you!

- Darn Tough Socks

- GAIA GPS Premium

- S.O.L. Fire Lite Fuel Free Rechargeable Lighter

- Crocs

- Teva Re Embers

- Patagonia Black Hole® Duffel

- Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole® Mini Hip Pack

- Patagonia Nano Puff® Jacket

- Just Go Travel Studios

- RUMPL Blankets

- Kindling Cracker

- Solo Stove Products

- Dirtlander.com

- Kahtoola MICROspikes

- Swiss Army Camper Knife

- Work Sharp Knife Sharpener

- RTIC Soft Pack Cooler

- Carhartt Beanie

- Nalgene Water Bottle

- UBeesize Phone Tripod with Wireless Remote

- Books

Dear Bob and Sue

Dear Bob and Sue: Season 2

Dear Bob and Sue: Season 3

Dories, Ho!

- America the Beautiful Pass

- Passport To Your National Parks (passport stamp book)

- Sawyer Squeeze Water Filter System

- Steripen Ultra UV Water Purifier

- Jetboil Flash Cooking System

- Yeti Products

To help support our podcast, consider subscribing to our Patreon account here.

Subscribe to The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen, and if you’ve enjoyed our show, please leave us a review or rating on Apple Podcasts. Five-star ratings help other listeners find our show.

Follow us on Instagram at @mattandkarensmith, on Twitter at @mattandkaren, on Facebook at dearbobands, or check out our blog at www.mattandkaren.com.

To advertise on The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast, email us at mattandkarensmith@gmail.com.

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#98: Best of Canyonlands National Park Nov 03, 2022

Radiating out from the confluence of the Green and Colorado Rivers in southeastern Utah is a landscape full of spectacular canyons, unusual rock formations, and some of the most challenging backroads anywhere in America. Separated into four distinct districts, Canyonlands NP has something for everyone, from easy-to-access canyon overlooks to breath-taking hikes of all degrees of difficulty. The park even has one of the most photographed natural arches in the southwest. In this episode, we cover all this and much more!

Here are a few helpful links about some of the topics in this episode:

· The National Park Service’s overview of the park’s districts

· Information you’ll need if you’re considering driving the White Rim Road

· OARS Cataract Canyon raft trip description

· Link to our Patreon account Intro video

· Where to subscribe to our Patreon account

· And, check out our fun and inspiring apparel at Dirtlander.com

Subscribe to The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen, and if you’ve enjoyed our show, please leave us a review or rating on Apple Podcasts. Five-star ratings help other listeners find our show.

Follow us on Instagram at @mattandkarensmith, on Twitter at @mattandkaren, on Facebook at dearbobands, or check out our blog at www.mattandkaren.com.

To advertise on The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast, email us at mattandkarensmith@gmail.com.

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#97: Haunted National Park Lodges Oct 27, 2022

If the historic national park lodges could talk, they’d tell us chilling stories about strange things happening over the years within their walls. From the sound of mysterious parties coming from deserted ballrooms to presidential rocking chairs moving by themselves, we’ve pulled a few of our favorite ghost stories from the history books to share with you during this spooky time of the year. In this episode, we take you to several lodges where unexplained happenings keep guests and caretakers on the lookout for figures from the past around every corner.

Here are links about some of the places we mentioned in this episode:

· Tour the Stanley Hotel and learn about its spooky past

· Our blog post about the Belton Chalet and the ghost who lives there

· The story of Elizabeth who haunts the Oregon Caves Chateau

· Link to our Patreon account Intro video

· Where to subscribe to our Patreon account

· And, check out our fun and inspiring apparel at Dirtlander.com

Subscribe to The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen, and if you’ve enjoyed our show, please leave us a review or rating on Apple Podcasts. Five-star ratings help other listeners find our show.

Follow us on Instagram at @mattandkarensmith, on Twitter at @mattandkaren, on Facebook at dearbobands, or check out our blog at www.mattandkaren.com.

To advertise on The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast, email us at mattandkarensmith@gmail.com.

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#96: Hiking Utah’s Kanarra Falls Oct 20, 2022

The trail to Kanarra Falls in southwestern Utah has it all: beautiful scenery, a pristine creek running through a slot canyon, and a picturesque waterfall. It’s just the right length at about 3.5 miles roundtrip and is only moderately strenuous. This is why it’s become a hugely popular destination for outdoor adventure seekers. In this episode, we talk about our experience hiking this trail in October 2022, how we got our permit, and a little history of this popular site. We even talk about how the town of Kanarraville now keeps this special place from being over-loved and the heroic efforts they undertook to replace the iconic log bridge that once provided hikers a way up the falls before a flood washed it away.

Here are links about some of the places we mentioned in this episode:

· Where to apply for permits to hike to Kanarra Falls

· Story about installing the new Kanarra Falls ladder

· Link to our Patreon account Intro video

· Where to subscribe to our Patreon account

· And, check out our fun and inspiring apparel at Dirtlander.com

Subscribe to The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen, and if you’ve enjoyed our show, please leave us a review or rating on Apple Podcasts. Five-star ratings help other listeners find our show.

Follow us on Instagram at @mattandkarensmith, on Twitter at @mattandkaren, on Facebook at dearbobands, or check out our blog at www.mattandkaren.com.

To advertise on The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast, email us at mattandkarensmith@gmail.com.

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#95: Custer State Park and the Black Hills Oct 06, 2022

South Dakota might not be the first place you think of as a vacation destination, but the Black Hills and surrounding areas are packed with incredible sights and activities. In this episode, we take you to the epicenter, Custer State Park, where you can see bison roam, hike some world-class trails, and take a scenic drive through granite spires and narrow tunnels. From there, we explore other fascinating public lands that are a short distance to a couple of hours away, including several national park service units. And as a bonus, there's not just one History Channel segment in this episode; we share multiple captivating stories about the adventurous people who previously explored these public lands.

Here are links about some of the places we mentioned in this episode:

· Custer State Park

· Buffalo Roundup and Arts Festival (at Custer State Park)

· Badlands National Park

· Wind Cave National Park

· Jewel Cave National Monument

· Mount Rushmore National Memorial

· Devils Tower National Monument

· Crazy Horse Memorial

· Minuteman Missile National Historic Park

· Bear Butte State Park

· Link to our Patreon account Intro video

· Where to subscribe to our Patreon account

· And, check out our fun and inspiring apparel at Dirtlander.com

Subscribe to The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen, and if you’ve enjoyed our show, please leave us a review or rating on Apple Podcasts. Five-star ratings help other listeners find our show.

Follow us on Instagram at @mattandkarensmith, on Twitter at @mattandkaren, on Facebook at dearbobands, or check out our blog at www.mattandkaren.com.

To advertise on The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast, email us at mattandkarensmith@gmail.com.

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#94: Mailbag! Wildlife, Solar Chargers, and Hiking Boots Sep 29, 2022

In our Mailbag! episodes, we answer questions from listeners about the national parks, ranger-led tours, road trips, hiking, camping, backpacking, gear, relationships, and pretty much whatever anyone wants to ask us. In this episode, we cover these topics:

· Our favorite wildlife sightings while visiting the national parks,

· Our opinion on hiking and backpacking with portable solar chargers, and

· What to consider when choosing the right hiking boots for your feet.

Our Patreon account is now up and running with bonus content. Follow this link to check it out.

Don’t forget to check out our new online merch store and www.dirtlander.com.

Subscribe to The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen, and if you’ve enjoyed our show, please leave us a review or rating on Apple Podcasts. Five-star ratings help other listeners find our show.

Follow us on Instagram at @mattandkarensmith, on Twitter at @mattandkaren, on Facebook at dearbobands, or check out our blog at www.mattandkaren.com.

To advertise on The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast, email us at mattandkarensmith@gmail.com.

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#93: Everglades National Park Sep 22, 2022

Now is the perfect time to plan a winter trip to Everglades National Park. While the park's rainy season is typically April through November, the other months are a great time to visit. In this episode, we talk about hiking trails we enjoyed and some other park activities you might want to try, such as airboat tours, nature photography tours, kayaking, canoeing, and Matt's favorite, slough slogging through the wetlands. But the fun doesn't stop there. We dive deep into the sawgrass marsh with a close look at its reptile population as Karen explains the differences between alligators and crocodiles and discusses an alarming challenge the park is facing: an exploding population of Burmese pythons.

Here are the links we mentioned in this episode:

· Everglades NP website where you can find info about guided tours

· Everglades National Park Institute for info about additional tours

· Link to our Patreon account Intro video

· Where to subscribe to our Patreon account

· And, check out our fun and inspiring apparel at Dirtlander.com

Subscribe to The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen, and if you’ve enjoyed our show, please leave us a review or rating on Apple Podcasts. Five-star ratings help other listeners find our show.

Follow us on Instagram at @mattandkarensmith, on Twitter at @mattandkaren, on Facebook at dearbobands, or check out our blog at www.mattandkaren.com.

To advertise on The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast, email us at mattandkarensmith@gmail.com.

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#92: The Grand Circle Tour Sep 08, 2022

It’s time for another road trip! The Grand Circle Tour is a driving itinerary that takes you to some of the most amazing natural wonders in southern Utah and northern Arizona. Travel along with us in this episode as we start in Las Vegas, travel northeast through Utah, loop down to southwestern Colorado, and come back to Utah before making a few stops in northern Arizona on our way back to Las Vegas.

This tour is a general guide; you can customize it to your liking. You can also begin and end it from any point on the loop if Las Vegas is not your starting point. So, buckle up and get ready for an incredible ride. Below is a list of the places we talk about as we travel along the Grand Circle Tour:

· Start in Las Vegas

· Valley of Fire State Park

· Zion National Park

· Bryce Canyon National Park

· Grand Staircase – Escalante National Monument

· Capitol Reef National Park

· Goblin Valley State Park

· Moab (Arches NP, Canyonlands NP, Dead Horse Point SP)

· Monticello, Utah (Canyonlands NP, Bears Ears NM, Natural Bridges NM)

· Hovenweep National Monument

· Mesa Verde National Park

· Four Corners

· Bluff, Utah

· Valley of the Gods

· Moki Dugway

· Goosenecks State Park

· Monument Valley

· Page, Arizona (Antelope Canyons, Horseshoe Bend)

· North Rim of the Grand Canyon

· Kanab, Utah (Buckskin Gulch)

· Zion National Park

· Back to Las Vegas

Here’s a link to a map of the route

Check out our fun and inspiring apparel at Dirtlander.com

Subscribe to our Patreon Account

Subscribe to The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen, and if you’ve enjoyed our show, please leave us a review or rating on Apple Podcasts. Five-star ratings help other listeners find our show.

Follow us on Instagram at @mattandkarensmith, on Twitter at @mattandkaren, on Facebook at dearbobands, or check out our blog at www.mattandkaren.com.

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#91: Best National Parks to Visit in the Fall Sep 01, 2022

Once summer vacation season ends and kids go back to school, the parks are a little less crowded, making fall the perfect time to visit our incredible national parks. In this episode, we took our fall travel suggestions from Episode #50 and added a few more comments about the best parks to visit as the weather cools and the leaves begin to turn.

Check out our fun and inspiring apparel at Dirtlander.com

Subscribe to The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen, and if you’ve enjoyed our show, please leave us a review or rating on Apple Podcasts. Five-star ratings help other listeners find our show.

Follow us on Instagram at @mattandkarensmith, on Twitter at @mattandkaren, on Facebook at dearbobands, or check out our blog at www.mattandkaren.com.

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#90: Mailbag! Our Favorite Waterfalls and Much More! Aug 25, 2022

In our Mailbag! episodes, we answer questions from listeners about the national parks, ranger-led tours, road trips, hiking, camping, backpacking, gear, relationships, and pretty much whatever anyone wants to ask us. In this episode, we cover these topics:

· Which national parks you might want to visit sooner rather than later if you're concerned about how escalating natural disasters will change them forever.

· Our favorite waterfalls we've visited during our travels

· Whether backpacking in Olympic National Park during November to celebrate a special anniversary is a good idea - and a couple of Plan B options just in case, and

· Where's an excellent place to watch the sunset in Acadia National Park for a couple of park lovers who aren't exactly morning people.

Don’t forget to check out our new online merch store and www.dirtlander.com.

Subscribe to The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen, and if you’ve enjoyed our show, please leave us a review or rating on Apple Podcasts. Five-star ratings help other listeners find our show.

Follow us on Instagram at @mattandkarensmith, on Twitter at @mattandkaren, on Facebook at dearbobands, or check out our blog at www.mattandkaren.com.

To advertise on The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast, email us at mattandkarensmith@gmail.com.

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#89: Our Ten Favorite Day Hikes in the National Parks Aug 11, 2022

Whether you prefer hiking through forests, deserts, or to the top of mountains, this list covers them all. It wasn’t easy narrowing the list to just ten, but these are the hikes we find ourselves doing over-and-over again when we visit the national parks. And as a bonus, we offer alternatives to each of these trails in case you’re looking for easier options or just want more hiking suggestions near these great hikes.

Check out our fun and inspiring apparel at Dirtlander.com

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#88: Mailbag! Hiking in Big Bend National Park and More Jul 28, 2022

In our Mailbag! episodes, we answer questions from listeners about the national parks, ranger-led tours, road trips, camping, backpacking, gear, relationships, and pretty much whatever anyone wants to ask us. In this episode, we cover these topics:

· Some of our favorite hikes in Big Bend National Park

· Our thoughts on which parks are good for pre-teens

· Budget-friendly suggestions for visiting the parks

· How we plan for a road trip

Link to a government site that displays wildfire and air quality info

· Which apps we use to store and remember information about hiking trails

Link to AllTrails, which we use to research specific trails and read recent trail reports

Link to GAIA GPS, which we use to navigate and record our hikes

· How to keep your lunch cold while hiking

Link to insulated lunch bags we use to keep our lunch items cool while we hike

· And more!

Also! Please check out our online merch store Dirtlander.com. Here you’ll find fun and inspiring shirts and merchandise.

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#87: Our Favorite Slot Canyons in the Southwest Jul 14, 2022

Breathtaking trails through narrow canyons lie hidden in the vast desert landscapes of the Southwest. These slot canyons, as they’re called, often have walls so close that you can reach out and touch both sides of the canyon – at the same time! And in places, you might even have to squeeze through the tightest passages sideways. Why would anyone want to do this, you might ask? Because the scenery in these canyons is jaw-dropping, to say the least. In this episode, we’re taking you to the Southwest to explore some of our favorite slot canyons in Utah, Nevada, New Mexico, and Southern California. Enjoy!

Also!

Please take a gander at our new merch website: www.dirtlander.com. There you’ll find our original “20252” designs, (Smokey Bear’s zip code if you didn’t already know) and other fun, outdoor travel-related gear.

Other links:

· Upper Antelope Canyon - Ticket info

· Lower Antelope Canyon - Ticket info for Ken’s tours - Ticket info for Dixie’s tours

· Buckskin Gulch - The Bureau of Land Management’s site where you can find more info about Buckskin Gulch

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#86: Mailbag! How Many Days to Spend in Great Sand Dunes NP and More! Jun 30, 2022

In our Mailbag! episodes, we answer questions from listeners about the national parks, ranger-led tours, road trips, hiking, camping, backpacking, gear, relationships, and pretty much whatever anyone wants to ask us. In this episode, we cover these topics:

· National Park Passport Stamp Book

Where to buy your very own book

Here’s a link to the National Parks Travelers Club

· How we avoid buying all the tchotchkes and souvenirs on our trips. Spoiler alert: we don’t.

· Planning a camping trip when flying to your destination.

· How to deal with photographers taking the best spots for capturing incredible images in the national parks.

· How much time to budget when visiting Great Sand Dunes National Park

· Suggestions about which national park to visit for a few days that’s close to the Alabama/Tennessee border.

Mount Leconte Lodge

· Tips on how to get started backpacking.

· How can foreigners volunteer in the national parks when traveling to the US.

The International Volunteers in Parks Program

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#85: Point Reyes National Seashore Jun 16, 2022

You might think that a seashore park is just sand beaches, but Point Reyes also has open grasslands and forested ridges that are home to 1,500 species of plants and animals. And for humans, the park offers a wide variety of recreational opportunities, like hiking, boating, biking, horseback riding, and fishing. In this episode, we talk about some of these activities and why you should add Point Reyes to your list of parks to visit.

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#84: Mailbag! Planning for Summer Trips and More May 26, 2022

In our Mailbag! episodes, we answer questions from listeners about the national parks, ranger-led tours, road trips, camping, backpacking, gear, relationships, and pretty much whatever anyone wants to ask us. In this episode, we cover these topics:

· A brief description of the Garmin InReach satellite messenger device.

· Shower/bathing options for a listener planning a two-week camping trip to the California parks.

· Must-see things to do and see for a listener's upcoming trip to Joshua Tree and the Channel Islands.

· Which parks have a shuttle from a regional airport to the park.

· Where we would go if we had 5-6 days to spend in Southern Utah.

· Which month is best to visit Denali National Park.

· And hiking hat suggestions from Karen, who always looks so cute in her Instagram photos.

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#83: Grand Canyon, North Rim vs South Rim May 19, 2022

When visiting Grand Canyon National Park, one of the world's seven natural wonders, should you visit the North Rim, the South Rim, or both? In this episode, we talk about what makes both rims of the canyon unique, and explain the differences in infrastructure, scenery, number of visitors, etc. We share information about lodging, camping, hiking trails, scenic drives, and some wildlife sightings unique to each rim. While the South Rim is where most people go to experience the Grand Canyon, you won’t want to miss the less-developed, rugged scenery of the North Rim.

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#82: Smokey Bear Has Never Been Hotter May 12, 2022

This episode is devoted to Smokey Bear, the beloved spokesanimal of the United States Forest Service, who spreads awareness about how to prevent accidental, human-caused wildfires. We discuss how and why the Smokey advertising campaign started more than 70 years ago, how Smokey went from an animated bear to a living, breathing animal, and where to visit the Smokey Museum and Historical Park, plus the largest Smokey statue in the country. All this and more!

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#81: Our Favorite Ranger-led Tours May 05, 2022

#81: Our Favorite Ranger-led Tours

National Park Service sites across the country offer a wide variety of ranger-led tours, and in this episode, we talk about some of our favorites. From Glacier Bay National Park in Alaska to Dry Tortugas off the coast of Florida, we've been on some fantastic ranger-led tours: on boats, in archeological ruins, caves, and canyons. These tours have been quite an education, and we’ll share some of what we’ve learned, as well as all the details about how you can partake in these tours during your visits to the parks.

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#80: Mailbag: Redwood National and State Parks, and much more! Apr 28, 2022

In our Mailbag episodes, we answer questions from listeners about the national parks, road trips, camping, backpacking, gear, relationships, and pretty much whatever anyone wants to ask us. In this episode, we share suggestions about visiting Redwood National Park. We also talk about which parks allow you to spread cremated ashes, where to stay when visiting North Cascades National Park, scenic roads you might want to check out in Glacier National Park besides Going to the Sun Road, and solo traveling in your 60s. All this and more!

Links:

· To see all our books on Amazon.com, follow this link.

· If you purchase one of our books through this link, you will not pay a higher price, but Amazon will pay us a small marketing fee. This fee helps support our podcast. Thank you!

Follow us on Instagram at @mattandkarensmith, on Twitter at @mattandkaren, on Facebook at dearbobands, or check out our blog at www.mattandkaren.com.

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#79: Mailbag: Pinnacles National Park, and much more! Apr 21, 2022

#79: Mailbag: Pinnacles National Park, and much more!

In our Mailbag episodes, we answer questions from listeners about the national parks, road trips, camping, backpacking, gear, relationships, and pretty much whatever anyone wants to ask us. In this episode, we share suggestions about what to do in Pinnacles National Park if you only have one day. We also answer questions about which national parks let you take your dog on the trails, what is in our emergency road kit, and how to maneuver the ferry to Olympic National Park. All this and much more!

Links:

· To see all our books on Amazon.com, follow this link.

· If you purchase one of our books through this link, you will not pay a higher price, but Amazon will pay us a small marketing fee. This fee helps support our podcast. Thank you!

Follow us on Instagram at @mattandkarensmith, on Twitter at @mattandkaren, on Facebook at dearbobands, or check out our blog at www.mattandkaren.com.

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#78: Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park Apr 14, 2022

Home to one of the deepest and narrowest canyons in the world, this park in west-central Colorado is a must-see destination, even if you only spend a half-day peering down into the canyon at the roadside lookouts. In this episode, we talk about some of these scenic overlooks, plus hiking trails, both maintained and unmaintained, where to stay when visiting the park, and when to visit. All this and more!

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#77: Exploring Capitol Reef National Park Apr 07, 2022

In this episode, we take you to Capitol Reef National Park, one of the most diverse national parks in Utah: it has incredible hiking trails, scenic drives, backcountry dirt roads, fruit picking, slot canyons, petroglyphs, and pies. There are many things to love about Capitol Reef, and we cover all of them, including some fun lodging options just outside the park.

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#76: Mailbag: Where to hike in Saguaro National Park, and much more! Mar 24, 2022

In this Mailbag! episode, we share some of our hiking suggestions in Saguaro National Park and the surrounding area, how to determine if you’re ready to tackle a 10- to 15-mile hike, and how to practice shooting bear spray before you hike in bear country. Plus, we offer suggestions regarding a listener’s Utah park itinerary.

Links:

· To see all our books on Amazon.com, follow this link.

· If you purchase one of our books through this link, you will not pay a higher price, but Amazon will pay us a small marketing fee. This fee helps support our podcast. Thank you!

Follow us on Instagram at @mattandkarensmith, on Twitter at @mattandkaren, on Facebook at dearbobands, or check out our blog at www.mattandkaren.com.

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#75: Dark Sky Parks Mar 17, 2022

Who hasn’t stared in awe at the Milky Way and been lost in wonder thinking about the billions of stars that make up our galaxy? In this episode, we’re talking about a special category of public lands called Dark Sky Parks. These are areas that have been certified by the International Dark-Sky Association as being excellent places to stargaze. Join us as we share our stories about stargazing in the parks and provide information about how to find some of the darkest night skies in the US.

Links:

· National Parks Traveler article: Your Search For The National Park System's Darkest Skies Leads To Utah

· International Dark-Sky Association website

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#74: Rocky Mountain National Park Mar 10, 2022

With majestic peaks in every direction, wildlife roaming the valleys, and some of the most incredible hiking trails in the country, it’s no wonder that Colorado’s Rocky Mountain is one of the most-visited national parks. In this episode, we discuss some of the best things to do inside the park, as well as in the town of Estes Park, just outside the park. And we’ll go over important details about the day-use reservation system, which you’ll need to secure before you even get to the park.

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#73: Exploring Acadia National Park Mar 03, 2022

We’re heading to the Northeast part of the country in this episode, to Acadia National Park in Maine. Called the Crown Jewell of the North Atlantic Coast, Acadia has a diverse array of rocky coastlines, granite mountains, lakes, ponds, meadows, and forests. It also has a ton of things to do:

· Scenic drives along historic motor roads

· Hiking some of the 158 miles of trails

· Exploring 45 miles of carriage roads on bikes or horseback

Plus, beaches, lighthouses, and the infamous popovers at Jordan Pond House. We talk about all this and much, much more.

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#72: Mailbag! Feb 24, 2022

In our mailbag episodes, we answer questions from listeners about the national parks, road trips, camping, backpacking, gear, relationships, and pretty much whatever anyone wants to ask us. In this episode, we share some ideas about what to do if you see someone breaking the rules in a national park. We also answer a question about when we use our trekking poles and when we leave them at home, and give our opinion on a listener’s national park itinerary. All this, and much more!

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#71: Our Twelve Favorite White-Knuckle Drives Feb 17, 2022

Join us for a thrilling ride as we take you on some of our favorite white-knuckle drives. These are roads we’ve discovered during our travels that have spectacular views but maybe not as many guardrails as we’d like. From winding, narrow paths over remote mountain passes to hairpin turns snaking up and down sheer cliffs, we’ll tell you about twelve must-see scenic drives so you can decide for yourself if you want to give them a try.

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#70: Exploring Yosemite National Park Feb 10, 2022

Join us on a trip to California, to one of the country's oldest and most popular national parks, Yosemite. Home to soaring granite domes, some of the world's biggest and oldest trees, and a few famous waterfalls, Yosemite offers world-class natural wonders and recreation opportunities. In today's episode, we'll give you an overview of the park's different areas, including some of our favorite hikes, lodging options, and much more!

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#69: Zion National Park – 2.5 Perfect Days Feb 03, 2022

Today we’re taking you with us to one of the Mighty Five National Parks in Utah: Zion. In this episode, we share with you our version of how to spend 2.5 perfect days in the park. We talk about some spectacular hikes, a great place to watch the sunset, when’s the best time to visit the park, and much more!

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#68: Mailbag! Jan 27, 2022

In our mailbag episodes, we answer questions from listeners about traveling, hiking, public lands, outdoor gear, and whatever else is on their minds. In this episode, the questions are about travel: how we decide where to go each year, how long it takes us to pack for a road trip, how to pack lightly when flying, how to plan for an impromptu trip, and more!

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#67: Our Favorite Things to Do In Grand Teton National Park Jan 20, 2022

In today's episode, we're discussing some of our favorite things to do and see in Wyoming's Grand Teton National Park. We talk about the scenic drives in the park, some of the best photography spots, and a few of our favorite hikes. Plus, we share tips about lodging options in and around the park, how many days to plan for your trip, and when to visit. And it wouldn't be a complete episode if we didn't include a little bit of park history.

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#66: Top Ten Things to Do in Arches National Park Jan 13, 2022

Arches is a red-rock wonderland of fins, spires, pinnacles, and arches -- 2,000 of them! Throw in some great hiking trails and a very scenic drive, and you’ve got a lot of choices of things to see and do throughout the park. In this episode, we narrow down the list, share ten of our favorites, and give some tips and advice about making the most of your experiences visiting them. We also provide some updated information about the park’s new reservation system so you can plan ahead and get your entry pass before you get to the park.

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#65: How to Plan Your National Park Trips Jan 06, 2022

#65: How to Plan Your National Park Trips

Planning a road trip can be as much fun as the trip itself. The anticipation and excitement ahead of time are some of the best parts of the experience. But the planning can also be overwhelming and confusing, especially when going to a place you’ve never visited. In this episode, we discuss how we plan our trips to the national parks and other public lands. We also talk about some of the items you’ll want to take with you on your trip, as well as rules and etiquette that you might not be aware of when visiting the parks.

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64: Mailbag! Dec 30, 2021

In our mailbag episodes, we answer questions from listeners about traveling, hiking, public lands, outdoor gear, and whatever else is on their minds. In this episode, we answer questions about Wrangell St. Elias National Park in Alaska, Indiana Dunes National Park in Indiana, and Great Basin National Park in Nevada. We also talk about some of the travel-related non-fiction books that have inspired us to travel. And more!

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#63: O Christmas Tree Dec 23, 2021

Today we’re talking about Christmas trees. Specifically, everything you need to know about the program run by the National Forest Service, where you can buy a permit online and head out to your national forest to cut down your own Christmas tree. In this episode, we share our Montana experience in December as we wandered through Flathead National Forest with a permit in hand, looking for that perfect Christmas tree for our stay in a national forest cabin.

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#62: Haleakala National Park – Sea to Summit Dec 16, 2021

The island of Maui has more to offer than lounge chairs on the beach and tropical drinks. It's home to Haleakala National Park. With a 10,000-foot summit, the park is the perfect place to watch the sunrise over the Pacific Ocean or hike down into its seven-mile-wide crater. In this episode, we cover the highlights of visiting this stunning park, including tips about trails and directions to its sea-level district on the island's east end.

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#61: An Epic Road Trip Through Northern Arizona Dec 09, 2021

In this episode, we talk about our recent 700-mile road trip through Northern Arizona, the perfect week-long tour of some of the most iconic sites in the American Southwest. Starting in Sedona, we worked our way northeast, visiting a couple of national parks, a half dozen other National Park Service sites, and a few Navajo Tribal Parks. Join us as we take you to stunning overlooks, one-of-a-kind cultural treasures, slot canyons, a petrified forest, and many more jaw-dropping public lands.

Please subscribe to The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen, and if you’ve enjoyed our show, please leave us a review or rating on Apple Podcasts. Five-star ratings help other listeners find our show.

Follow us on Instagram at @mattandkarensmith, on Twitter at @mattandkaren, on Facebook at dearbobands, or check out our blog at www.mattandkaren.com.

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#60: One Perfect Day in Bryce Canyon National Park Dec 02, 2021

Bryce Canyon National Park has something for everyone: hikes, jaw-dropping overlooks, scenic drives, a historic hotel, good pizza, and a cave. And with a bit of planning, you can do it all in one perfect day. We’ve been to this park many times, and each visit feels like we’re seeing the place for the very first time. In this episode, we suggest an itinerary for one perfect day, but stay as long as you’d like in this truly magical landscape.

And there’s more. Check out the companion blog post on our website: One Perfect Day in Bryce Canyon National Park.

Please subscribe to The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen, and if you’ve enjoyed our show, please leave us a review or rating on Apple Podcasts. Five-star ratings help other listeners find our show.

Follow us on Instagram at @mattandkarensmith, on Twitter at @mattandkaren, on Facebook at dearbobands, or check out our blog at www.mattandkaren.com.

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#59: Thanksgiving in the National Parks Nov 25, 2021

Shake up your Thanksgiving routine by celebrating in a national park. Many of the park lodges and restaurants offer traditional Thanksgiving feasts. And what could be better than spending the long holiday weekend in a beautiful outdoor setting rather than battling shoppers for a deep-discount, big-screen TV? In this episode, we talk about many of the places in the national park system that you might want to consider for your Thanksgiving adventure.

Please subscribe to The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen, and if you’ve enjoyed our show, please leave us a review or rating on Apple Podcasts. Five-star ratings help other listeners find our show.

Follow us on Instagram at @mattandkarensmith, on Twitter at @mattandkaren, on Facebook at dearbobands, or check out our blog at www.mattandkaren.com.

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#58: Top Ten Things to Do in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Nov 18, 2021

What could be more magical than watching new land being formed as lava flows from the mouth of a volcano? Hawaii Volcanoes National Park protects and celebrates this beautiful site as its boundary extends from the Pacific Ocean to nearly the 13,677-foot summit of Mauna Loa. Tucked along the southeast edge of the Big Island, this lava-belching landscape has been a national park for over 100 years. In this episode, we talk about the top ten things you’ll want to be sure to do when visiting the park.

And check out our companion blog post about the Top Ten Things to Do in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park – click here.

Please subscribe to The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen, and if you’ve enjoyed our show, please leave us a review or rating on Apple Podcasts. Five-star ratings help other listeners find our show.

Follow us on Instagram at @mattandkarensmith, on Twitter at @mattandkaren, on Facebook at dearbobands, or check out our blog at www.mattandkaren.com.

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#57: Outdoor Gear and Gifts We Love Nov 11, 2021

Give the gift of adventure. In this, our annual gear and gift guide, we talk about the gear we use, love, and in some cases, absolutely can’t live without. Whether you are looking for holiday gift ideas toward the end of the year or need gear suggestions in any season, this episode is a great starting point. Check out our companion blog post with links to many of the items we discuss. The links on our website are sponsored. Any commissions we earn from them go a long way to making this podcast possible. Thank you for your support.

Special offer! And as a bonus to our listeners, GAIA GPS is offering 20% off a one-year subscription to their app when you follow this link.

Please subscribe to The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen, and if you’ve enjoyed our show, please leave us a review or rating on Apple Podcasts. Five-star ratings help other listeners find our show.

Follow us on Instagram at @mattandkarensmith, on Twitter at @mattandkaren, on Facebook at dearbobands, or check out our blog at www.mattandkaren.com.

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#56: Three Perfect Days in New River Gorge National Park Nov 04, 2021

Are you thinking about visiting our nation’s 63rd national park, nestled in the Appalachian Mountains of West Virginia? Then you’re in luck. In this episode, we talk about our recent visit to New River Gorge National Park and Preserve with our dear friends Bob and Sue. And we’ve arranged it into a three-day itinerary to give you a starting point for planning your visit.

You can find links to many of the places and activities we discuss in this episode on our blog post about New River Gorge National Park – click here.

Please subscribe to The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen, and if you’ve enjoyed our show, please leave us a review or rating on Apple Podcasts. Five-star ratings help other listeners find our show.

Follow us on Instagram at @mattandkarensmith, on Twitter at @mattandkaren, on Facebook at dearbobands, or check out our blog at www.mattandkaren.com.

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#55: The Ghosts of Mammoth Cave National Park Oct 28, 2021

Did you know that Mammoth Cave National Park preserves the longest known cave system in the world? Here’s another fact you might not know: many people think the cave is haunted. Join us for this episode as we give an overview of Mammoth Cave National Park, and Karen regales Matt with frightening and sometimes ghoulish stories from the past about the caverns below south-central Kentucky.

Link to the National Park Service webpage: Top Ten Tips for Visiting Mammoth Cave National Park

Please subscribe to The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen, and if you’ve enjoyed our show, please leave us a review or rating on Apple Podcasts. Five-star ratings help other listeners find our show.

Follow us on Instagram at @mattandkarensmith, on Twitter at @mattandkaren, on Facebook at dearbobands, or check out our blog at www.mattandkaren.com.

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#54: Mailbag! Oct 21, 2021

In our mailbag episodes, we answer questions from listeners about traveling, hiking, public lands, outdoor gear, and whatever else is on their minds. In this episode, we’re talking about the America the Beautiful Pass, how to get started backpacking, and our thoughts on how to balance work and travel. If you have a question you’d like us to answer on a future episode, email us at mattandkarensmith@gmail.com.

Links we discus in the episode:

· Where to purchase an America the Beautiful Pass online.

· A description of all six types of passes.

· More info about the Annual Pass

· More info about the Military Pass

· More info about the 4th Grade Pass

· More info about the Senior Pass

· More info about the Access Pass

· More info about the Volunteer Pass

· Resource for renting backpacking equipment

· Great site for renting backpacking equipment in the Pacific Northwest

· Backpacking checklist from REI

Subscribe to The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen, and if you’ve enjoyed our show, please leave us a review or rating on Apple Podcasts. Five-star ratings help other listeners find our show.

Follow us on Instagram at @mattandkarensmith, on Twitter at @mattandkaren, on Facebook at dearbobands, or check out our blog at www.mattandkaren.com.

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#53: Zion's Epic Subway Hike Oct 14, 2021

The trail to The Subway is one of the least traveled yet most spectacular in Zion National Park. Over countless years, water has carved a unique, tube-like slot canyon along the Left Fork of North Creek. If you’re lucky enough to win the permit lottery to hike this trail, you have two options for getting there: top-down and bottom-up. In this episode, we talk about our experience hiking the bottom-up route and tips about having a safe and enjoyable hike.

Link to Zion NP’s webpage where you can find more about how to get a permit to hike to The Subway.

Please subscribe to The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen, and if you’ve enjoyed our show, please leave us a review or rating on Apple Podcasts. Five-star ratings help other listeners find our show.

Follow us on Instagram at @mattandkarensmith, on Twitter at @mattandkaren, on Facebook at dearbobands, or check out our blog at www.mattandkaren.com.

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#52: Antelope Canyon Oct 07, 2021

Starting at the shore of Lake Powell in northern Arizona, Antelope Canyon stretches for over twenty miles as it snakes its way south through pristine Navajo land. Over millions of years, water and wind carved several incredibly beautiful sections of the canyon. In this episode, we discuss four of the areas that you can visit to experience these wonders of nature up close.

Links to where you can find more information about the tours we talk about:

Ken’s Lower Antelope Canyon Tour

Dixie’s Lower Antelope Canyon Tour

Upper Antelope Canyon Tour

Antelope Canyon X Tour

Please subscribe to The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen, and if you’ve enjoyed our show, please leave us a review or rating on Apple Podcasts. Five-star ratings help other listeners find our show.

Follow us on Instagram at @mattandkarensmith, on Twitter at @mattandkaren, on Facebook at dearbobands, or check out our blog at www.mattandkaren.com.

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#51: Mailbag! Sep 30, 2021

In our mailbag episodes, we answer questions from listeners about traveling, hiking, public lands, outdoor gear, and whatever else is on their minds. In this episode, we’re talking about road trips, train trips, bears, and ticks. If you have a question you’d like us to answer on a future episode, email us at mattandkarensmith@gmail.com.

Subscribe to The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen, and if you’ve enjoyed our show, please leave us a review or rating on Apple Podcasts. Five-star ratings help other listeners find our show.

Follow us on Instagram at @mattandkarensmith, on Twitter at @mattandkaren, on Facebook at dearbobands, or check out our blog at www.mattandkaren.com.

To advertise on The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast, email us at mattandkarensmith@gmail.com.

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#50: The Best National Parks to Visit in Each Season Sep 23, 2021

We get a lot of questions from people asking us what parks they should visit during specific times of the year. On today’s episode we’re going season to season, talking about which parks are great to visit during the winter, spring, summer, and fall. We cover all 63 national parks, taking into account factors like their weather, accessibility, wildflowers, fall foliage, crowds, and much more. Grab a pen and paper and get ready to take notes. You might learn a few seasonal travel tips that’ll come in handy when planning your next spring break destination, summer vacation, or fall getaway.

Some of the topics we discuss in this episode:

· The only national park that closes in the winter

· The one piece of the U.S. that is below the equator

· Our favorite park to snowmobile in

· Best national parks to view the brilliant fall colors

· Which park you can tour while on a beer train excursion

· The park you’d visit if you also wanted to attend the International Chili Championship

· Which parks you can visit in the winter for a tropical getaway

· And our list of national parks that are great to visit in any season.

Links to more information:

· The Kula Cloth

· Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad (link to the beer train)

· 54th Annual CASI Terlingua International Chili Championship

Where to learn more about our books and travels
Check out our Twitter account
Join the conversation on Facebook - we want to hear from you!
Check out our Instagram account

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#49: Glacier National Park: Part 2 of 2 Sep 16, 2021

From historic hotels to jaw-dropping vistas to spectacular hiking trails, Glacier has it all. Because of its mountainous terrain, activities and sights are clustered in several unique areas of the park and along the central park road corridor. A visit to this magnificent place feels like going to several national parks, all nestled around the Continental Divide. It would take a lifetime to see and do everything that Glacier National Park has to offer, and in this second episode of our two-part series on the park, we talk about our favorites. If you haven’t listened to the first part of this series, please check it out here.

Some of the topics we discuss in this episode:

· Why it’s so important to do advanced planning before visiting Glacier NP

· The best time to visit

· Recent changes to the park’s system for entering the park – you may need a reservation

· Why you might want to park your car and take the hikers’ shuttle

· Overview of the historic lodges and hotels in and around the park

· Some of our favorite hikes in each area of the park

· Where to get the best huckleberry bear claws in Montana

· And much more!

Links to more information:

Glacier NP’s webpage about their shuttle system
Glacier NP’s webpage about planning your visit
Where to learn more about our books and travels
Check out our Twitter account
Join the conversation on Facebook - we want to hear from you!
Check out our Instagram account

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#48: Glacier National Park: Part 1 of 2 Sep 09, 2021

The Crown of the Continent, Glacier National Park is one of the most visited and beloved destinations in the National Park System. In this part 1 of 2 episodes on the park, we discuss one of its most unique aspects: their backcountry chalets. Ten chalets dotted the park back more than a hundred years ago, providing visitors a place to rest between day-long horseback rides. Today, three of the ten original chalets still exist and operate as places where travelers can spend a night or two while exploring the park. In August, we hiked up to Granite Park Chalet, along the Highline Trail, and spent a couple of nights in this historical site. Join us as we talk about how we planned the trip and our experience in the backcountry of this magnificent park.

Some of the topics we discuss in this episode:

· Why the Great Northern Railway built the backcountry chalets

· What happened to all of them

· Which ones still exist

· Planning a visit to stay at one of the remaining chalets

· Why you’ll need a reservation/ticket for Going to the Sun Road

· Tips and tricks regarding the park’s shuttle system

· The story of our visit to Granite Park Chalet in August 2021

Links to more information:

Glacier NP webpage about their shuttle system
Glacier NP webpage about their backcountry chalets
Granite Park Chalet’s website
Sperry Chalet’s website
Where to learn more about our books and travels
Check out our Twitter account
Join the conversation on Facebook - we want to hear from you!
Check out our Instagram account

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#47: Dining Around the Parks Jul 15, 2021

Over the years while we explored the national parks, we also found a lot of unique and authentic places to eat, and today we’re sharing some of our favorites. In this mid-summer bonus episode, we provide a sampling of great restaurants, bars and bakeries. From donut shops to breweries and steakhouses, we discuss where you can get some delicious food while you’re visiting the parks. It’s always fun to find your own hidden gems when traveling, but if you find yourself at a loss for where to dine, we have some suggestions for you to try.

Some of the places and areas of the country we cover in this episode:
Pizza, pizza, beer and quesadillas in Moab, Utah
Pizza and noodles in Springdale by Zion NP
Covered wagons, pizza and pie in Torrey, Utah by Capitol Reef NP
A place to buy socks and dinner in Escalante, Utah
It’s all about the huckleberries in Glacier NP in Montana
In and around the three NPs in Washington state
Black Hills and Badlands NP in South Dakota
Donuts and barbeque in Estes Park, CO by Rocky Mountain NP
The best trailer pizza in Terlingua, TX, near Big Bend NP
A breakfast spot in Joshua Tree, CA
A brewery in Flagstaff, AZ, not far from the Grand Canyon

Links to more information:

Where to learn more about our books and travels
Join the conversation on Facebook - we want to hear from you!
Check out our Instagram account

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#46: Twenty-Five National Parks to Visit in Your Lifetime Jun 10, 2021

Our country’s national parks are frequently referred to as “America’s Best Idea,” for good reason. There are 423 National Park Service sites that protect everything from natural wonders to historical sites to endangered animals. Every one of them has something unique and special to offer visitors, but on this episode, we showcase our favorite 25 national parks. If you’re not planning to visit every national park, these are the ones we think you should visit in your lifetime.

What are some of the parks that made our list?

The crown jewel of the North Atlantic coast
A park that contains 2,000 sandstone arches
A park that’s beloved for its fruit orchards and its mini pies to go
The largest park in the lower 48; it’s also the hottest, driest and lowest park
A park where visitors walk amongst brown bears
A park where you can see the largest trees by volume in the world
The park that’s referred to as the Alps of America
A park that has multiple ecosystems
A park with the highest road and the highest Visitor Center in the U.S.

Links to more information:

A list of all the NPS sites
Where to learn more about our books and travels
Join the conversation on Facebook - we want to hear from you!
Check out our Instagram account

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#45: Badlands National Park Jun 03, 2021

The southwest corner of South Dakota has an incredible variety of National Park Service sites to explore, and one of our favorites is Badlands National Park. From its mixed-grass prairie to its jaw-dropping geologic rock formations, this is a must-see park. In this episode, we talk about ways to explore the area on foot, by driving along the scenic road and by stopping at the numerous overlooks. You’re likely to spot the resident wildlife: bison, bighorn sheep, pronghorn antelope, and lots of prairie dogs welcoming you to the park. Plus, we offer suggestions on where to stay and how much time to allot for your visit.

Some of the topics we discuss in this episode:

Other amazing public lands to explore near Badlands NP
Why there’s a chance you could find a million-year-old fossil in the park
How Badlands got its name
When and how bison were returned to the park
How black-footed ferrets were saved from extinction
Our favorite hikes in the park
What it was like to stay in a cabin at Cedar Pass Lodge
Why Wall Drug is worth a visit
One perfect day in Badlands National Park

Links to more information:

Book a cabin at Cedar Pass Lodge
NPS Badlands National Park website
Book a tour at Minuteman Missile National Historic Site
Learn more about Wall Drug
Where to learn more about our books and travels
Join the conversation on Facebook - we want to hear from you!
Check out our Instagram account

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#44: Mailbag! May 27, 2021

It’s time again for our monthly mailbag episode where we answer questions from our listeners about national parks and other public lands, as well as questions about gear, hiking trails, and a broad range of travel-related topics.

Some of the questions/topics we discuss in this episode:

What kind of backpacks we use on our hikes
Whether or not mosquito headnets really work
Why we don’t use hydration bladders in our backpacks
Which parks are good for small children
Why we each have our own passport stamp books
Whether or not we’ll be heading back to the Chilkoot Trail again this summer
Driving a remote and rugged dirt road in Capitol Reef National park
Advice and tips for older hikers

Links to more information:

Road conditions in Capitol Reef National Park
Where to buy Permethrin Insect Repellant for clothing
Where to learn more about our books and travels
Join the conversation on Facebook - we want to hear from you!
Check out our Instagram account

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#43: North Cascades National Park May 20, 2021

Only a three-hour drive from Seattle, North Cascades National Park looks like you’ve traveled all the way to Switzerland. With its 300 glaciers and soaring mountain peaks, North Cascades is a wilderness park best explored on foot during the summer months. We discuss our favorite hikes, as well as a unique park lodge in the tiny town of Stehekin that can only be reached by boat, seaplane, or on foot. And we share a story about a frightening night we spent in a remote backpacking campsite.

Some of the topics we discuss in this episode:

The three NPS units that make up the North Cascades park complex
Where the Visitor Centers are
The best time to visit for hikers
Why this is one of the least visited national parks
Where we like to stay when we visit the park
Our favorite hike in the national park
How to get to North Cascades Lodge in Stehekin
Fun things to do and see in the Stehekin area
What happened to us during our backpacking trip to Stehekin

Links to more information:

Book a room at North Cascades Lodge in Stehekin
Where to learn more about our books and travels
Join the conversation on Facebook - we want to hear from you!
Check out our Instagram account

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

#42: Crater Lake National Park May 13, 2021

In the third episode of our series about volcano parks in the Pacific Northwest we’re featuring Oregon’s Crater Lake National Park, which has one of the most stunning scenes in any national park: a sapphire-blue lake situated in the middle of a collapsed volcano’s caldera. Reaching a depth of almost 2,000 feet, Crater Lake is the deepest and most pristine lake in the country. What is there to do in this park besides gaze in awe at this incredible view? A lot, actually. On this episode we talk about the wide variety of activities available, plus lodging options in the park, and the best seasons to visit.

Some of the topics we discuss in this episode:

Where the only place to swim in the lake is located
Why there is no limit or license needed to fish
The different boat tours available
Who the Old Man of the Lake is
Why Matt wants to be a trolley captain
Our favorite hikes in the park
What gives the lake its deep blue color
Things to do in the park in the winter

Links to more information:

Check out Crater Lake’s webcam
Book a room at Crater Lake Lodge
Where to learn more about our books and travels
Join the conversation on Facebook - we want to hear from you!
Check out our Instagram account

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

#41: Mount Rainier National Park May 06, 2021

Rising more than 14,000 feet above sea level, Mount Rainier stands as an icon in the Washington landscape. In this episode we discuss this active volcano and the incredible national park that surrounds it, one of the oldest parks in the national park system. With 97% designated as wilderness, we share tips on how to visit some of the developed areas, with information about what to see, where to stay, when to go, and our favorite hiking trails.

Some of the topics we discuss in this episode:

Why it’s called Mt. Rainier and the controversy surrounding its name
How to visit the park in the winter
Why you might want to wait until July for your summer visit
What the five different developed areas of the park are like
What it’s like to stay in Paradise Inn, one of the great lodges of the West
Our favorite hike in the park
Information on summiting Mt. Rainier
Other things to do and see in the park

Links to more information:

Check out the current road status in Mount Rainier National Park
Where to learn more about our books and travels
Join the conversation on Facebook - we want to hear from you!
Check out our Instagram account

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

#40: Climbing Mount St. Helens Apr 29, 2021

What’s the most difficult day hike we’ve ever done? Without question it was climbing to the top of Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument in WA state. Mount St Helens is part of the Cascade Range: 13 volcanoes that lie in an 800-mile chain from British Columbia to northern California.

Seven of these thirteen volcanoes have erupted at least once in the past 200 years, one of those being the most catastrophic and deadly volcanic event ever experienced in the United States: the 1980 eruption of Mount St. Helens. In this episode we’ll discuss the details surrounding the eruption, as well as our grueling hike to the rim of the volcano.

Some of the topics we discuss in this episode:

What happened in the months leading up to the eruption
What kind of devastation the blast caused
Why so many people died as a result of the eruption
Why the area was made a national monument
Tips as to how to prepare for your climb to the rim of the volcano
What it was like to stand on the edge of the crater
Other things to do and see in the park

Links to more information:

Link to a video of Mount St. Helens’ eruption
Where to get a Mount St. Helens climbing permit
Where to learn more about our books and travels
Join the conversation on Facebook - we want to hear from you!
Check out our Instagram account

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

#39: Mailbag! Apr 22, 2021

It’s time for our monthly mailbag episode again, where we answer questions about national parks and other public lands, as well as gear, camping and a broad range of travel-related topics.

Some of the questions/topics we discuss in this episode:

What NPS sites turned out to be more than we expected
Whether or not you need a campsite reservation in Olympic NP in the summer
Have we been recognized by fans during our travels
In which parks did the cost to get there outweigh the experience
How many days does it take to see Congaree NP
What are some ways to visit the ocean parks
What has been our most difficult day hike

These questions and more on this episode of Mailbag!

Links to more information:

Link to boat tour to Channel Islands NP
Link to boat tour to Dry Tortugas NP
Link to boat tour Biscayne NP
Where to learn more about our books and travels
Join the conversation on Facebook - we want to hear from you!
Check out our Instagram account

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

#38: The Ten Essentials Apr 15, 2021

What’s in your backpack? To prevent emergencies from happening while you’re hiking, and to deal with any that might arise, it’s important to include items from the Ten Essentials list. The National Park Service encourages all hikers to know what the Ten Essentials are, and to carry some version of them in their backpack. In this episode, we’ll discuss each of the ten categories, and give suggestions about what we like to carry with us on day hikes.

Some of the topics we discuss in this episode include:

What forms of navigation you could bring in addition to a paper map
What first aid items we’ve used the most
What a ferro rod is and why you should practice using it
Why you should carry duct tape
What the 3-in-1 tool is that Karen never leaves home without
Why we always pack peanut butter and jelly sandwiches
What are some ways to sterilize water along a trail
What items we pack that are not on the Ten Essentials list
What is Karen’s 11th Essential

Links to more information:

The National Park Service Ten Essentials
Where to learn more about our books and travels
Join the conversation on Facebook - we want to hear from you!
Check out our Instagram account

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

#37: Above the Arctic Circle Apr 08, 2021

Alaska’s eight national parks contain some of the most spectacular wilderness areas in the NPS system, but two of them, Gates of the Arctic and Kobuk Valley, consist of nothing but millions of acres of wilderness. There are no roads, no trails, no campsites and no services of any kind. In this episode we talk about our adventure to these two remote parks, the last parks on our original national park journey. Join us as we travel to these places that few visitors ever see, above the Arctic Circle.

Some of the topics we discuss in this episode include:

Where these parks are located
What the options are for tourists who want to visit them
Why we saved these two parks for last
Where we stayed and what it was like
How it felt to climb into a small plane again
What our park visits entailed
Why Matt tipped our pilot extra
Who we met that had a big impact on us
How much this trip cost

Links to more information:

The Bettles Lodge website
Where to learn more about our books and travels
Join the conversation on Facebook - we want to hear from you!
Check out our Instagram account

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

#36: Dead Horse Point State Park Apr 01, 2021

One of the most beautiful state parks in the country, Utah’s Dead Horse Point State Park, offers jaw-dropping views and incredible hiking trails. You can also rent one of nine yurts for a camping experience that combines the fun of tent camping with some of the luxuries of a hotel room. In this episode, we’re coming to you from inside one of those yurts, and we’ll discuss what it was like spending the night here, plus everything you’d want to know about the park and our experience driving the nearby, infamous Shafer Trail.

Some of the topics we discuss in this episode include:

What is the Shafer Trail and what kind of a vehicle do you need to drive it
Why we had to race to the top of Canyonlands to find a park ranger
How Dead Horse Point got its name
What are the yurts like on the inside
Why Karen thinks the parking lot bathrooms by the yurts would be a nice place to spend the night
Why Dead Horse Point is known for its sunrises and sunsets
What the campgrounds are like at Dead Horse Point

Links to more information:

How to reserve a yurt at Dead Horse Point State Park
Where to learn more about our books and travels
Join the conversation on Facebook - we want to hear from you!
Check out our Instagram account

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#35: Mailbag! Mar 25, 2021

It’s time for our monthly mailbag episode again, where we answer questions about national parks and other public lands, gear, camping and a broad range of travel-related topics.

Some of the questions/topics we discuss in this episode:

Is it a good idea to visit all four Colorado national parks in one trip?
What happens after you spray a bear with bear spray?
What kind of shoes are best to hike in for water crossings?
What are some good parks to visit if you only have a long weekend?
Where are the best places in the Southwest to stargaze?

These questions and more on this episode of Mailbag!

Links to more information:

Link to Rocky Mountain NP fire closures
Link to Dark Sky Parks
Where to learn more about our books and travels
Join the conversation on Facebook

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#34: New Mexico Land of Enchantment Mar 18, 2021

New Mexico has so many natural and historical wonders you’ll have to visit several times to see them all. But if you have a free week, might we suggest that you start in Albuquerque and make a big loop the way we did a few years back. Whether you do this trip yourself or simply join us on this episode as we recount our experiences, you’ll agree that Land of Enchantment is a fitting nickname for New Mexico.

Some of the sites we discuss in this episode include:

Bandelier National Monument – could this be our next national park?
Santa Fe – why this is such a magical place
Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument – a must-see natural wonder
White Sands National Park (was a National Monument when we visited it) – why this site is no longer a premier spring break destination for college kids
Smokey Museum and Historical Park – what is it exactly that makes Karen want to hold Smokey’s hand
Carlsbad Caverns – we can’t talk about New Mexico without mentioning its most famous cave system
Albuquerque – in search of The Chicken Brothers and the Walter White residence
Petroglyphs National Monument – you can walk your dog and see thousands of examples of ancient rock art at the same time

Links to more information:

To see photos from our travels, visit our
Instagram account, or
TikTok account
More info about the Smokey Bear sites
Where to learn more about our books and travels
Join the conversation on Facebook

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#33: Monumental National Monuments Mar 11, 2021

When we set out to visit all of the national parks, we drove past countless national monuments on our quest to check all the parks off our bucket list. Thankfully, in the years since we completed our original goal, we’ve retraced a lot of our road trip routes, adding stops at many of the incredible monuments that we missed on our first go-around. While national parks often get most of the headlines and visitors, our country’s 129 national monuments are every bit as remarkable, each in their own way. Established by either Congress or the President, these sites protect our historic places, cultural ruins, and natural, wilderness areas. In this episode, we talk about five of our favorites.

The national monuments we discuss in this episode:

Devils Tower (Wyoming) - why you may or may not want to visit in early August
Cedar Breaks (Utah) – what ancient beings live on the rim of this monument
Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument (Utah) – what’s so spooky about this place
Natural Bridges National Monument (Utah) – it was the first what?
Chiricahua National Monument (Arizona) – why you might want to stay in your RV or tent at night when visiting this amazing place

Links to more information:

To see photos from our travels, visit our
Instagram account, or
TikTok account
Where to learn more about our books and travels
Join the conversation on Facebook

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#32: Denali National Park Mar 04, 2021

Who hasn’t dreamed of seeing the tallest peak in North America close up? Denali, at 20,308 feet in elevation, and its namesake national park are breathtaking to behold. In this episode, we share stories from our two visits to Denali and explain how visitors get into the backcountry on the only road through the park. During our first trip, we let the driver of our green transit bus worry about keeping his wheels on the road so we could focus on taking in the stunning landscape and wildlife. And on a subsequent visit, we booked a Fourth of July stayover at a backcountry lodge only to realize that there would be no fireworks—because it never gets dark. As a bonus, we open with a discussion about the new National Park Service app.

Some of the topics we discuss in this episode:

What do Alaskans do when a moose dies in their front yard—or backyard.
A little history of the park
Why private vehicles are only allowed to drive to milepost 15 in the park.
When and how to get a permit for a once-a-year opportunity to drive farther into the park.
Everything you’d want to know about the transportation system in the park.
What’s the 30% club and how to become a member.
What it’s like to stay in the backcountry lodge in the park.
What park activities are available to visitors in the winter.

Links to more information:

To see photos from our travels, visit our
Instagram account, or
TikTok account
Denali NP website
Where to learn more about our books and travels
Join the conversation on Facebook

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#31: Mailbag! Feb 25, 2021

Our first all-mailbag episode. Thank you for all the questions and comments you’ve sent to us about our podcast. We thought we’d try something new and dedicate an entire show to answering your questions. It was a lot of fun recording this episode; we hope you enjoy it.

Some of the questions/topics we discuss in this episode:

What are the transportation options to Isle Royale National Park?
How do we stay in shape?
Why didn’t we take the pottery chard we found in Grand Canyon NP to the park headquarters?
Do we ever do outdoor adventures with our adult children?
What’s it like to go to the top of the Gateway Arch?
Have we ever thought of creating videos?

Links to more information:

To see photos from our travels, visit our
Instagram account, or
TikTok account
Links to ferry info to Isle Royale NP
Ferry from Copper Harbor
Ranger III
Sea Hunter III
Voyageur II
Where to learn more about our books and travels
Join the conversation on Facebook

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#30: Six Astounding State Parks Feb 18, 2021

In this episode we take you with us on a journey to six of our favorite state parks as we talk about what makes each of these parks unique and why we think they’re astounding. With more than ten thousand state parks spread across the country, our list of favorites is long, and we may have to record several episodes about these smaller, but just-as-spectacular public lands. On our original trip to all the national parks, we had little time to visit them, but since then, we’ve made it a point to see as many as we can. Consider this episode a mere sampling of the hidden treasures that await you. (And, no, we are not partial to parks with “Smith” in the name. But they do get our attention.)

The parks we discuss in this episode:

Custer SP (South Dakota)
Jedediah Smith Redwoods SP (Northern California)
Valley of Fire SP (Nevada)
Antelope Island SP (Utah)
Goblin Valley SP (Utah)
Smith Rock SP (Oregon)

Links to more information:

To see photos from our travels, visit our
Instagram account, or
TikTok account
Where to learn more about our books and travels
Join the conversation on Facebook

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#29: Horse Pack Trip into the Wilderness Feb 11, 2021

Saddle up, partner! Apologies for the corny opening, but—spoiler alert—more horse-related puns are awaiting you in this episode. We’ve taken many treks into wilderness areas in the past ten years, yet most of them have been of the two-legged variety. On this adventure, we let our four-legged friends do the hard part, carrying us (and our stuff) deep into the Pasayten Wilderness of north-central Washington state. As it seems with most of our exploits, there were a few bumps in the trail that we didn’t anticipate. But by the time we ended our four-day, three-night trip, we were ready to do it all over again. We just needed a few days for our butts to stop aching.

Some of the topics we discuss in this episode:

What it was like to ride a horse for the first time in 25 years
The curious suggestions we got from friends as we were preparing
The unique characteristics about each of our horses
The magnificent setting of our camp and the details of camp life
Why our horses deserted us and how we got them back
How it felt to wake up in a frozen tent in August
Our amazing daytrips
And, it wouldn’t be a Matt and Karen adventure without a guest appearance from an oh-too-familiar slithery companion

Links to more information:

To see photos from our travels, visit our
Instagram account, or
TikTok account
Where to learn more about our books and travels
Join the conversation on Facebook

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#28: Havasu Falls Feb 04, 2021

Taking a wish out of Karen’s bucket, in 2016 we braved the hike down into the Grand Canyon to Havasu Falls with our friends John and Lolly. Fortunately, we both scored lodging in Supai Village, on the Havasupai Indian reservation, so we didn’t have to carry packs full of camping gear with us. Havasu Creek's waterfalls are a natural wonder that everyone should see at least once in their lifetime. If you Google photos of Havasu Falls, rest assured that the turquoise blue water in those pictures are what you’ll see as you’re standing there in person, looking up in awe. In this episode, we describe our trip to see the falls, including the hike down and back, and our stay at the lodge in the remote village by the falls.

Some of the topics we discuss in this episode:

Where the heck is Havasu Falls? Hint: Not by Lake Havasu
Why it took us a couple of tries to do this trip
How a last-minute medical emergency almost stopped us for a second time
Where the trailhead is for the hike down
Description of the hike to Supai Village
Seeing the jaw-dropping falls in person
Staying at the lodge in the village
Tips for how to get a reservation at the lodge
What we would do differently if we went back

Links to more information:

To see photos from our travels, visit our
Instagram account, or
TikTok account
Where to learn more about our books and travels
Join the conversation on Facebook

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

#27: Our Favorite Hikes in the National Parks Jan 28, 2021

In this episode we talk about some of our favorite hikes in the national parks. It took us a couple of tries to record this one because we had too many on our original “favorites” list. (We may have to do a follow-up episode someday to talk about all of the other jaw dropping trails we left out.) So grab your notebook because we provide a ton of information about must-do hikes in many of the most popular national parks. If you’re like us, you’ll want to hike many of these trails multiple times. Just be sure you take plenty of water, bear spray, and a headlamp. Do not forget your headlamp! And at the end of the episode, we answer a question from our mailbag.

Some of the hikes we discuss in this episode:

Devil’s Garden-Primitive Loop – Arches NP
Chesler Park-Joint Trail Loop - Canyonlands
Fairyland Loop - Bryce Canyon
Gower Gulch-Golden Canyon - Death Valley
Giant Forest Loop Trail - Sequoia
And many, many more...
In the mailbag segment we talk about whether we have any plans to hike long-distance trails like the Pacific Crest or Appalachian Trails

Links to more information:

To see photos from our travels, visit our
Instagram account, or
TikTok account
Where to learn more about our books and travels
Join the conversation on Facebook

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

#26: Death Valley National Park Jan 14, 2021

Despite its not-so-enticing name, Death Valley National Park is one of our favorite destinations, especially in the winter months. Being the lowest, driest, and hottest place in North America, you might be surprised that it also has 11,000+-foot, snow-covered peaks. In this episode we talk about some of the best places to see in the park and give some suggestions for what to do if you only have a few days to visit. And at the end of the episode, we answer a biting question from our mailbag.

Some of the topics we discuss in this episode:

How the park got its name
When is the best time to visit
Where to stay, eat, and get gas in the park
The best places in the park to watch the sunset
Some of our favorite hikes
Spectacular backcountry drives
Whether aliens visited the Racetrack (you’ll have to listen to the episode to understand what this means)

Links to more information:

To see photos from our travels, visit our
Instagram account, or
TikTok account
Visit the park’s website for more park information
For backcountry travel, you might want to rent a Jeep from Farabee’s
Where to learn more about our books and travels
Join the conversation on Facebook

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#25: Here and There Dec 31, 2020

In this end-of-the-year episode, we talk about many of the topics listeners have suggested to us that aren’t long enough for a full episode. We also try to keep our streak alive of consecutive episodes where Karen cries. You’ll have to tune in to find out if we were successful. It’s been a fun year learning to create podcast episodes and interacting with listeners. Thank you to all of you who’ve supported us in this journey!

Some of the topics we discuss in this episode:

How do we get along while being together 24/7 (Who says we get along?)
Our experiences in the few Canadian national parks we’ve visited
What gear is in our packs. We talk about winter gear and summer gear that we always carry.
Hiking tips for beginners
How we organize our travel ideas for future trips
What our experience has been in this first year of creating a podcast from scratch
A couple of our favorite podcast bloopers from this year
A few of our ideas for future episode topics

Links to more information:

To see photos from our travels, visit our
Instagram account, or
TikTok account
Where to learn more about our books and travels
Join the conversation on Facebook

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

#24: National Park of American Samoa Dec 17, 2020

Little did we know when we cavalierly made the announcement ten years ago that we were going to visit every U.S. national park that we had just signed up for a trip to the Southern Hemisphere. The National Park of American Samoa is part of the only U.S. territory south of the equator. So off we went one December on a journey to explore this South Pacific island paradise. In this episode, we talk about our experiences in the park, as well as what we learned about the Samoan culture while visiting with locals about their way of life. We’ll also tell you why all of the TVs on the island were tuned into NFL games the Sunday we were there. At the end of the episode, we answer a question from our mailbag.

Some of the topics we discuss in this episode:

Where the heck American Samoa is and how to get there
A little history about the islands
Why there’s a national park there
Best time of the year to go
Where to stay when you’re visiting
Some of the activities we did on our trip
Our encounter with a flying fox
And a special gift we got from a group of Samoan teenagers. But there’s a twist to the story.

Links to more information:

To see photos from our travels, visit our
Instagram account, or
TikTok account
Visit the park’s website to learn more
Where to learn more about our books and travels
Join the conversation on Facebook

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#23: Dories, Ho!: Floating the Colorado River Through the Grand Canyon Part 2 of 2 Dec 10, 2020

In this second part of our mini-series about floating the Colorado River in a small wooden dory boat, we share stories from our second trip through the entire length of the Grand Canyon. We describe some of the breathtaking places along the river that we didn’t see on our first go around, as well as our runs through two of the most extreme rapids in the country. If you haven’t already listened to Part One of this series, you might want to start there. In that episode, we discuss the logistics of a Grand Canyon river trip and what it’s like living on the river. Spoiler alert: both of these trips were adventures of a lifetime. Your bucket list will get longer after listening. And at the end of the episode, we answer a question from our mailbag.

Some of the topics we discuss in this episode:

We start the episode talking about Karen’s idea of what a bucket list is, and some of the adventures still in our bucket. (This sentence will make more sense after you listen to this episode.)
What it was like to float the entire length of the Colorado River through the Grand Canyon
Descriptions of our day hikes, including Elves Chasm, The Patio, Havasu Creek, and more
Floating down the Little Colorado River wearing oversized diapers
Our impressions of running two of the biggest whitewater rapids in the lower 48: Crystal Rapid and Lava Falls
How the beach below Lava Falls got its name

Links to more information:

To see photos from our travels, visit our
Instagram account, or
TikTok account
Where to get a copy of our book by the same title: Dories, Ho!
List of concessioners who run commercial boat trips
Where to learn more about our books and travels
Join the conversation on Facebook

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#22: Dories, Ho!: Floating the Colorado River Through the Grand Canyon Part 1 of 2 Dec 03, 2020

For years we’d ask people who’d traveled the world, “What’s the best outdoor adventure trip you’ve ever taken?” To our surprise, the same answer came up time after time: floating the Colorado River through the Grand Canyon. That’s all we needed to hear. So, with a dry bag filled with a few changes of clothes and a toothbrush, we set off down the river with fourteen of our closest friends for a six-day adventure. And, of course, we had a ten-person team of experienced guides with us, along with four wooden dory boats, three support rafts, and many cans of beer stowed below deck somewhere.

Some of the topics we discuss in this episode:

What a dory is
What the heck Dories, Ho! means
Preparing for our trip down the Colorado River
What it’s like living on the river for six days
The thrill of running whitewater rapids in a tiny wooden boat
And, would we do it again?
Tune in to part two (released Dec. 10) to learn the answer

Links to more information:

To see photos from our travels, visit our
Instagram account, or
TikTok account
Where to get a copy of our book by the same title: Dories, Ho!
Must-see video about Martin Litton and dory boats
List of concessioners who run commercial boat trips
Where to learn more about our books and travels
Join the conversation on Facebook

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

#21: One Man’s Wilderness: Lake Clark National Park Nov 19, 2020

No state in the Union has more public space than Alaska; nearly 90% of the land is owned by the state or federal government, and amongst the vast, untamed lands are eight national parks. Lake Clark National Park, about 120 miles southwest of Anchorage, is one of the most remote. It’s also where one man spent three-plus decades living as one with the wilderness in a small log cabin he built himself on the shore of a magnificent mountain lake. In this episode we talk about our experience in the park and visiting Dick Proenneke’s cabin; the man who documented his wilderness experience and became an advocate for preserving Alaska’s pristine natural places.

Some of the topics we discuss in this episode:

Where Lake Clark National Park is located
How to get to the park
Where we stayed when we visited the park
How we got to Twin Lakes, the site of Dick’s cabin
What it was like to see the cabin in its restored condition
Meeting the volunteer rangers who now care for Dick’s cabin

Links to more information:

To see photos from our travels, visit our
Instagram account, or
TikTok account
One Man's Wilderness: An Alaskan Odyssey book on Amazon
Alone in the Wilderness video on Amazon
NPS site about Dick Proenneke
One Man’s Alaska documentary
No Place Like Twin Lakes video
Where to learn more about our books and travels
Join the conversation on Facebook

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Bonus Episode: 2020 Holiday Gift Guide Nov 12, 2020

The holidays are fast approaching, and if you have trouble finding the perfect gift for the outdoor enthusiast on your list, you’ll want to check out our bonus holiday gift episode. We discuss many of our favorite travel, hiking, and camping items that make perfect gifts for family, friends, or even for yourself. Enjoy!

For links to all of the items we mention in this episode, visit our online 2020 Holiday Gift Guide on our blog www.mattandkaren.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

#20: Scenic Drives Through Public Lands Nov 05, 2020

Brilliant, breathtaking, and magnificent are just some of the words we would use to describe the scenic drives we discuss in this episode. That is if we had consulted a thesaurus before recording our discussion about these spectacular drives. But spectacular they are, regardless of how many times we used the word. One of the great things about visiting our public lands is the roads to and through them make the journey worth the trip even if you don’t get out of your vehicle. Here, we talk about a few of our favorite drives that we’ve discovered during our travels and give some tips and history for each.

The drives we cover in this episode:

Going-to-the-Sun-Road (Glacier NP)
Beartooth Highway (Northeast of Yellowstone NP)
Lamar Valley (Yellowstone NP)
Needles Highway (Custer State Park)
Badlands Loop (Badlands NP)
Trail Ridge Road (Rocky Mountain NP)
Million Dollar Highway (between Ouray and Silverton Colorado)
Highway 24 through Capitol Reef NP
Capitol Reef Scenic Drive
The Burr Trail (Escalante NM, Capitol Reef NP, and Glen Canyon NRA)
Skyline Drive (Shenandoah NP)

Links to more information:

To see photos from our travels, visit our
Instagram account, or
TikTok account
Video of engineers clearing snow from Going-to-the-Sun-Road
Info about the Beartooth Highway
Info about roads in Capitol Reef National Park
More about the Scenic Drive in Capitol Reef National Park
Info about the Burr Trail in Utah
Info about the Needles Highway
Info about the Badlands Loop Scenic Byway
Info about Skyline Drive
Where to learn more about our books and travels
Join the conversation on Facebook

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#19: Adventures in Olympic National Park Oct 22, 2020

Featuring a park in our home state of Washington on this episode, we discuss some of the highlights and must-sees at Olympic National Park. From the rugged coastline of the Pacific Ocean to the blue glaciers hanging off steep alpine cliffs, Olympic NP has something for everyone. Only a short day trip from the Seattle metro area, you can drive to many of the most spectacular sites within the park in a few hours. If you are a little more adventurous, backpacking through the park gives you a less-crowded perspective on the wild beauty of this “magical” place. We even give you a small peek into what it’s like traveling with us by playing an audio recording we made during one of our more challenging adventures.

Some topics we discuss include:

Yes? No? Maybe? Whether or not we plan to write another book
Four seasons of fun up at Hurricane Ridge
Where to go to see what’s left from the largest dam removal project in history, where you can peer into the canyon below at the newly-freed, rushing Elwha River
The myriad of activities at beautiful Lake Crescent: in the water, on the beach and on the nearby trails.
Our three-day adventure hiking the High Divide / Seven Lakes Basin Trail which started out with some wild weather
The magic of the Hoh Rain Forest
What we found--and didn’t find—during our backpacking trip along Shi Shi Beach on the coast of the Pacific Ocean
And more...
In the mail bag segment, we discuss some of our scariest hikes while traveling to all of the national parks.

Links to more information:

To see photos from our travels, visit our
Instagram account, or
TikTok account
Click here for updated information and park map
Where to learn more about our books and travels
Join the conversation on Facebook

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

#18: Winter in Yellowstone and Glacier National Parks Oct 08, 2020

While visiting Glacier and Yellowstone National Parks in the winter can feel like stepping into a Christmas card photo, staying in a nearby Forest Service cabin with no electricity or indoor plumbing isn’t always so picture perfect. In this episode, we talk about many of our experiences in these two parks during the magical winter season, as well as the thrills and challenges of staying in rustic Forest Service cabins when the temperature dips well below freezing. Spoiler alert: walking through the snow to a pit toilet in the middle of the night with only a headlamp to scare away the bears is both a thrill and a challenge.

Some topics we discuss include:

Matt’s latest obsession with organizing all of our travel gear
Our experiences snowmobiling in Yellowstone National Park during the winter
How Karen’s desire to get into the holiday spirit created our new tradition of visiting national parks every December
How to find and rent a Forest Service cabin
What it was like staying in a Forest Service cabin near Yellowstone with no heat, electricity or indoor plumbing, in December
What activities are available in Glacier National Park in the winter
Spending a few days in a Forest Service cabin near Glacier National Park
Our snowshoe experiences in and around Glacier
Would we rent a Forest Service cabin in the winter again?
And in our mail bag segment, we answer a question about whether we ever practiced shooting our expired bear spray, and if so, what did we learn.

Links to more information:

To see photos from our travels, visit our
Instagram account, or
TikTok account
Recreation.gov listing for Big Creek Cabin
Recreation.gov listing for Zips Place Cabin
Where to learn more about our books and travels
Join the conversation on Facebook

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#17: Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks Sep 24, 2020

It was a close call for sure. Had the government not stepped in to protect the land that today makes up these magnificent parks, the Giant Sequoias may have been lost forever. These amazing trees are a natural wonder everyone should see at least once in their lifetime. And the trees in the parks are not the only natural wonder. As John Muir observed over 100 years ago, the valley of Kings Canyon, surrounded by its towering cliffs, is as equally breathtaking as Yosemite. Yet today, only a small fraction of the number of people who visit Yosemite make it to Kings. In this episode, we talk about our visits to these parks and what it’s like to spend a few days walking amongst giants.

Some topics we discuss include:

When our Photo of the Day Contest began and how Karen ended up becoming the sole judge of our travel photos
How we found out that Sequoia and Kings Canyon are managed as one unit
Matt’s filing system for all of our park literature
Hiking to the largest tree in the world in The Giant Forest in Sequoia NP
Other must-see sites close to The Giant Forest like Moro Rock and a tree you can drive through
Staying at the Wuksachi Lodge in Sequoia and what Matt tried to buy in the gift shop
Visiting Grant Grove in Kings Canyon NP and the 2nd-largest tree in the world
Camping and hiking deep in Kings Canyon
And in our mail bag segment, we answer a question about which is better for hiking The Narrows in Zion National Park, trekking poles or one of those long, wooden poles you rent from a local outfitter.

Links to more information:

To see photos from our travels, visit our
Instagram account, or
TikTok account
Sequoia and Kings Canyon official website.
Where to learn more about our books and travels
Join the conversation on Facebook

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

#16: The Wave in Northern Arizona Sep 10, 2020

We had all but given up on ever getting a permit to hike to one of the most sought-after sites in the American Southwest: The Wave in Northern Arizona. But in the fall of 2019, an email from a kind and generous stranger changed all of that. The adventure to this spectacular rock formation was as awe-inspiring as we’d heard it would be, and in this episode, we describe our experience at The Wave in January 2020. And if you think the excitement was over at the end of the hike, it wasn't. The drive back to civilization on the half-frozen dirt road was an adventure all its own.

Some topics we discuss include:

What it’s like to participate in the walk-in lottery for permits in Kanab, UT
The process for applying for a permit online, and a few tips on how to increase your chances of winning
How to prepare for hiking to The Wave in different seasons of the year—spoiler alert: it can be dangerously warm in the summer with no shade
Advice on navigating the sometimes-dicey House Rock Valley Road on the 8-mile drive to the trailhead
What to expect if/when you finally make it to The Wave
And in our mail bag segment, we share some tips about how we’ve reduced the weight in our backpacks on overnight trips, including some of the gear that goes into our packs and what we leave at home.

Links to more information:

To see photos from our travels, visit our
Instagram account, or
TikTok account
Bureau of Land Management site for The Wave where you can learn more about the site and find information about how to apply for a permit
Where to learn more about our books and travels
Join the conversation on Facebook

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Bonus Episode: How much it costs to visit all 62 national parks Aug 13, 2020

It is by far the most frequent question we get from readers and listeners: How much did it cost you to visit all 62 national parks? This bonus episode is essentially a detailed mail bag response to this very question. While we know everyone’s expenses will be different based on where they live, where they stay in and around the parks, how they get there, and how long they spend in each park, in this episode we discuss what it cost us to visit them. We also provide some tips on how to plan a journey to all the national parks and a few ways to save money along the way.

Some topics we discuss include:

Brief overview on the categories of costs incurred when visiting the parks
How we planned our journey to all the parks
How much it cost us to visit all of them
A discussion of another couple’s accounting of their costs when visiting all of the parks (see link below)
Some ideas about how to group parks together into a single trip to save on travel costs
How we find lodging, hikes, and hidden gems along the way
And more!

Links to more information:

Map showing the order in which we visited the 59 national parks (We completed our tour in 2012 when there were 59 parks; today there are 62.)
NPS map of all the National Park units
Link to the NPS map site with further links to many of the NPS publications
Blog post where Lauren and Steven provide details of how much it cost them to visit all 62 national parks in 2019
Where to learn more about our books and travels
Join the conversation on Facebook - we want to hear from you!
Check out our Instagram account

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#15: Our Favorite Places in Yellowstone Jul 23, 2020

Few places, if any, in the lower 48 states have remained as wild and undisturbed as Yellowstone National Park. Sure, there are roads and boardwalks throughout the park to accommodate the millions of annual visitors, but its wildlife and unique landscape remind you that this part of our great country has never been tamed. Out of all the 62 national parks that we’ve visited, there is no place like Yellowstone. Because of its size and the many points of interest, to really see and experience all the wonders of this park will require more than a visit or two, preferably in different seasons. In this episode of The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast, we discuss our favorite places to visit inside the park and share a few tips we’ve learned from our trips.

Some topics and places we discuss include:

A brief history of the world’s first national park
Why there are so many geysers in Yellowstone (That’s geysers, the things that shoot hot water into the air, not geezers.)
Best times to visit the park
A bit about the large mammals you’ll likely see
Our favorite places in the different areas of the park: North, Central West, Central East, and more
A few hiking tips and suggestions
And, in our mail bag segment, we discuss why we didn’t narrate our Dear Bob and Sue audiobooks

Links to more information:

To see photos from our travels, visit our
Instagram account, or
TikTok account
Yellowstone National Park’s website
Map of the park
Link to the free National Park Service interactive mobile app
Where to learn more about our books and travels
Join the conversation on Facebook

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#14: Outdoorsy in Vegas Jul 09, 2020

Come on seven! Mama needs a new pair of shoes! Yep, you’re in the right place, this is still The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast. Except, this episode has a bit of a twist. In it we explore many of the great public lands that are within day-tripping-distance from—that’s right—Las Vegas. During our many visits to Sin City over the years, we’ve managed to take a few breaks from the general debauchery of The Strip to explore some of the magnificent outdoor attractions in the area. And there are many. So leave the sequined dress and sharkskin suit in your hotel room closet and join us as we get outdoorsy in the desert just beyond the glare of the neon signs.

Some topics and places we discuss include:

How and why we got started collecting National Park passport stamps
Red Rock Canyon - a desert beauty with towering red cliffs offers an escape for hikers, bikers, horseback riders, and even drivers who just want to cruise along the 13-mile scenic drive
Valley of Fire State Park - this amazing park has a little bit of everything: petroglyphs, petrified wood, amazing rock formations, a slot canyon, and even an “elephant” arch
Lake Mead National Recreation Area - America’s first and largest national recreation area boasts two lakes and nine wilderness areas with miles of hiking trails, showcasing its spectacular scenery whether you’re on the water or on a trail
Mojave National Preserve - Covering a whopping million and a half acres, this preserve has sand dunes, cinder cone volcanoes, and the world’s largest Joshua tree forest
And, of course, at the end of the episode we answer a question from the mail bag

Links to more information:

To see photos from our travels, visit our
Instagram account, or
TikTok account
Link to our blog post Outdoorsy in Vegas
Red Rock Canyon homepage
Valley of Fire State Park homepage
Lake Mead NRA homepage
Mojave NP homepage
Where to learn more about our books and travels
Join the conversation on Facebook

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#13: The Great American Bison Road Trip Jun 25, 2020

Who doesn’t love an end-of-summer road trip? Few activities compare to the joy of packing a duffel bag full of stuff, filling the snack bag with Cheez-Its and animal crackers, and heading down the open road with all of your cares in the rearview mirror. It’s even better when you have a theme. In this episode, we talk about a buffalo-themed road trip we took across the northern plains states to some national and state parks where we visited as many public bison herds as we could fit into two weeks. You’ll also hear about some of the trails we hiked and places we visited along the way.

Some topics and places we discuss include:

Fun facts about bison (or “buffalo” if you prefer)
National Bison Range, Montana
Theodore Roosevelt National Park, N. Dakota
Bear Butte State Park, S. Dakota
Custer State Park and the Black Hills, S. Dakota
Badlands NP, S. Dakota
Devil’s Tower, Wyoming
Yellowstone NP
Grand Teton NP
And more

Links to more information:

To see photos from our travels, visit our
Instagram account, or
TikTok account
National Bison Range homepage
Learn about Custer State Park’s annual buffalo roundup festival
Where to learn more about our books and travels
Join the conversation on Facebook

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#12: Misadventures in Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park Jun 11, 2020

Over 120 years ago, the Klondike Gold Rush attracted more than 100,000 people from around the world with the lure of wealth and adventure. All that stood in the way of the prospectors’ dream of finding gold was a year-long journey to a remote area in the Yukon Territory, which included a treacherous 33-mile trail over a steep mountain pass in Alaska. Today, that trail—the Chilkoot Trail—lies within a national park; half in the U.S. and half in Canada. In this episode, we talk about our 2018 attempt to trace the gold rushers' footsteps and backpack the famous trail with our friends, John and Lolly. We share the story of an epic hike in the wilderness of Alaska that turned out to be one of our biggest adventures to date.

Some highlights from this episode include:

How we got the idea in the first place to hike the Chilkoot Trail
A brief history of the Klondike Gold Rush and what it was like for the prospectors who braved the journey
Planning our trip and the logistics involved
What it was like hiking the trail in August during one of the most torrential rainstorms in decades
What went very wrong on the third day, as we attempted to summit Chilkoot Pass
How we made it through our ordeal with the help of three excellent NPS rangers
And hear from our special guests, John and Lolly, who join us on this episode

Links to more information:

To see photos from our travels, visit our
Instagram account, or
TikTok account
NPS site for the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park Seattle Unit and Skagway Unit
Where to learn more about our books and travels
Join the conversation on Facebook

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#11: Beyond Utah’s Mighty Five National Parks May 28, 2020

The five national parks in Utah are spectacular and draw millions of visitors each year for a good reason. But the public lands surrounding these parks are also packed with natural wonders worth experiencing. You could spend countless days visiting the national monuments, state parks, and tribal parks in southern Utah, gazing at their one-of-a-kind rock formations, hunting for ancient Puebloan ruins, and hiking through pristine landscapes. In this episode, we talk about some of the sites you should consider adding to your itinerary on your next road trip to the Southwest.

Some of the places we discuss include:

Monument Valley
Goosenecks State Park (SP)
Valley of the Gods
Hovenweep National Monument (NM)
Natural Bridges NM
Bear Ears NM
Goblin Valley SP
Dead Horse Point SP
Grand Staircase Escalante NM
Cedar Breaks NM
And more...

Links:

To see photos from our travels, visit our
Instagram account, or
TikTok account
Join the conversation on Facebook
Our books

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#10: Trailer Tales from California’s Desert Parks May 14, 2020

Teardrop trailers sure look cute and romantic, but what’s it like actually sleeping in one? Today we’re sharing what we learned as we camped in a teardrop trailer in three parks in southern California. Find out what additional equipment you may need to bring with you, the best situations to use a teardrop, and whether we liked it in the end. We also talk about the best seasons for visiting different parks in our mail bag section.

In this episode we discuss:

Picking up the trailer
Why winter may not be the best season for teardrop camping
The camping sites and hikes we enjoyed in the Mojave Preserve, Joshua Tree, and Death Valley NPs
Finding romance on Valentine’s Day in the national parks
The importance of researching what season is best in what park

Links:

To see photos from our travels, visit our
Instagram account, or
TikTok account
Join the conversation on Facebook
Our books

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#09: Five National Park Hidden Gems Apr 30, 2020

You’ll often see the same handful of National Parks topping the “best of” lists, but there are some real hidden gems out there too that are worth visiting. In this episode, we’re sharing our top five parks that have lower visitation numbers. We discuss how we got to these parks, what there is to do in each one, and what we loved about them. From island hopping at Dry Tortugas to hiking along a border river in Big Bend, join us as we venture through some of these lesser known parks.

In this episode we discuss:

Taking a boat to Dry Tortugas NP
Big Bend NP along the Rio Grande River
Karen sneaks Carlsbad Caverns onto the list
The archeological sites at Mesa Verde NP
Taking in the beautiful landscapes at Great Basin NP
Why Lassen Volcanic NP is like a mini Yellowstone

Links:

To see photos from our travels, visit our
Instagram account, or
TikTok account
Join the conversation on Facebook
Our books

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#08: Katmai National Park: Bear Watching Apr 16, 2020

Of all the experiences we had while traveling to the U.S. national parks, bear watching in Katmai National Park is at the top of the list. Tucked away in a remote part of southwest Alaska, Katmai is truly a unique and exciting place to visit. During certain weeks each summer, visitors are pretty much guaranteed some phenomenal bear watching. Join us on this episode to hear stories about our incredible bear encounters and our recommendations for planning your own trip to Katmai.

In this episode we discuss:

Why Katmai became a national park in the first place
Where it is and how to get to there
What to do (and not do) if you have a close encounter with a bear
Tips for the best places to view the brown bears in the park, and
Our “interesting” bear encounters while visiting the park

Links:

To see photos from our travels, visit our
Instagram account, or
TikTok account
Katmai National Park website
Join the conversation on Facebook
Our books

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#07: Carlsbad Caverns National Park Apr 02, 2020

Join Matt and Karen as they descend 750 feet underground to explore what Karen thinks is one of the most magical places in the entire U.S. national park system: Carlsbad Caverns. Matt’s not a huge fan of dark, scary holes, but he puts on a brave face during the couple’s multiple visits to this enchanted part of the Chihuahuan Desert in southern New Mexico. You might want to have a flashlight or two close by when you listen to this episode, just in case the lights go out and you need to self-rescue your way back to daylight. That’s one of the lasting effect these cave visits had on Matt: he never goes anywhere now without at least a couple light sources with him.

In this episode we discuss:

The variety of cave tours offered at Carlsbad Caverns
Which caves Matt and Karen visited
Why Matt’s not a fan of caves
What to know if you’re planning to attend the bat flight program
The ranger speech that made Karen tear up
Why Karen is thinking about becoming a scientist

Links:

To see photos from our travels, visit our
Instagram account, or
TikTok account
Carlsbad Caverns NPS website
Join the conversation on Facebook
Our books

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#06: Zion National Park: Hiking The Narrows Mar 19, 2020

Standing in waist-deep water while looking up at the towering canyon walls, the scene was breath-taking. Or, maybe it was the cold water splashing our midsections that was taking our breath away. Join us as we hike The Narrows, one of the most magnificent areas of Zion National Park. On today's episode, we talk about our experiences while hiking up the Virgin River through The Narrows, what to bring if you’re thinking of doing it yourself, and other how-to tips.

In this episode we discuss:

Why we’re wearing the same clothes in all of our National Park sign pictures
The best time of year to hike The Narrows
What to bring and what not to bring
Why you might need a permit
What we did for work before quitting our jobs to visit the National Parks

Links:

To see photos from our travels, visit our
Instagram account, or
TikTok account
The Narrows NPS website
Join the conversation on Facebook
Our books

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#05: RV Adventures in Arizona Mar 05, 2020

Have you ever wanted to take an RV on an adventure into the National Parks? So did we, so we rented one in Arizona and toured the southern part of the state for a week. Join us as we explore Chiricahua National Monument and other National Park units from the comfort of a 19-foot recreational vehicle. Along the way, we learn about the dos and don'ts of RV life, meet the nicest people in the RV community, and lament the untimely demise of Matt's tennis shoes.

In this episode we discuss:

Renting an RV from Cruise America
Going to a gigantic RV show in Kansas City
Hiking in Chiricahua National Monument
How to use the dump station at an RV park
RVing versus tent camping

Links:

To see photos from our travels, visit our
Instagram account, or
TikTok account
Join the conversation on Facebook
Our books

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#04: Our Favorite National Park Lodges Feb 20, 2020

What's it like to wake up with a view of Crater Lake from your bedroom window? In this episode, we gleefully revisit some of our favorite National Park lodges and the adventures we had staying in them. We discuss the "parkitechture" and fascinating history to each of the lodges. We regale some hilarious stories from our stays at Crater Lake Lodge and El Tovar lodge at the Grand Canyon. We also talk about how to get reservations and some fantastic places for sunset viewing,

In this episode we discuss:

Staying in the largest log structure in the world in Yellowstone NP
Watching bears from the deck in Glacier NP
Wintertime stay at Zion lodge
Ranger programs at Bryce Canyon lodge
Twin beds at Paradise Inn in Mt. Rainier NP
President Roosevelt's stay in Olympic NP on Lake Crescent
An unexpected surprise at Crater Lake Lodge
The mule-train journey taken by Matt's shorts in the Grand Canyon
The public space at the Ahwahnee Lodge in Yosemite NP

Links:

To see photos from our travels, visit our
Instagram account, or
TikTok account
Join the conversation on Facebook
Our books

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#03: Arches National Park: Getting Lost in the Fiery Furnace Feb 06, 2020

Would you go into a fiery furnace on purpose if you knew you’d probably get lost, have to squeeze through narrow openings, and be forced to crab walk over sketchy boulders? Well, that’s exactly what we did, and we even waited in line for a permit to do it. The Fiery Furnace in Arches National Park is a special treat for visitors as only a limited number of people are allowed permits each day to hike through this magnificent maze of rock formations. We’ve visited the fiery furnace in Arches National Park a couple of times, and in this episode, we talk about our experiences along the trail.

In this episode we discuss:

Karen's fantasy of being an off-duty park ranger
Our ranger-led tour into the fiery furnace
Returning on our own and getting lost in the slot canyons, and
How we live and work together 24/7

Links:

To see photos from our travels, visit our
Instagram account, or
TikTok account
Recreation.gov
Join the conversation on Facebook
Our books

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#02: North Cascades National Park: Glaciers and Boulders and Scree Oh My! Feb 04, 2020

Join us on our backpacking trip to Sahale Glacier in North Cascades National Park. Along with our friends John and Lolly, we braved the treacherous trail and a few overly friendly mountain goats to camp at the base of a glacier in a truly sublime setting. It was a strenuous, magical, and unforgettable journey. In this episode, we relive our trip into one of the most beautiful alpine areas in all of the national parks. If you ever want to make this trek yourself or would just like to hear about our challenging yet humorous adventure, this episode is for you.

In this episode we discuss: