Shows
Humans OutsideLow Pressure, High Fun: These Experts Know How to Maximize National Park Trips (Matt and Karen Smith, National Park travel experts)Planning a visit to one of the many national parks or federally protected lands? You’ll be in good company. Visiting these spaces is more popular than ever before. So how do you make sure the company isn’t too good? How do you avoid the crowded spots, still get to have that bucket list trip and make the most of the journey? Matt and Karen Smith are national park travel experts because they’ve been there, done that, and share their journey in their podcast “Dear Bob and Sue” and books of the same title. The...2024-03-0142 min
Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks PodcastDry Tortugas National Park UpdateDry 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 o...2024-02-2633 min
Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks PodcastGhost Towns of the National ParksIt’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 Gor...2023-10-2652 min
Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks PodcastGreat Basin National ParkGreat 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...2023-10-0554 min
Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks PodcastMailbag! Our Thoughts on Bigfoot and MoreIn 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 n...2023-06-291h 00
Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks PodcastDriving Tour of Washington's National Parks, Part TwoThe 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...2023-03-091h 02
Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks PodcastWashington's Cascade Loop Scenic Byway, Part OneAh, 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, a...2023-03-0245 min
Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks PodcastMatt and Karen’s Annual Gift GuideAre 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...2022-11-1058 min
Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks PodcastEverglades National ParkNow 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...2022-09-2253 min
Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks PodcastOur Favorite Slot Canyons in the SouthwestBreathtaking 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...2022-07-141h 02
Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks PodcastMailbag! How Many Days to Spend in Great Sand Dunes NP and More!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 BookWhere to buy your very own bookHere’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 t...2022-06-3057 min
Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks PodcastPoint Reyes National SeashoreYou 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. Subscribe to The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen, and if you’ve...2022-06-161h 00
Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks PodcastMailbag! Planning for Summer Trips and MoreIn 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...2022-05-2650 min
Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks PodcastGrand Canyon, North Rim vs South RimWhen 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. Sub...2022-05-1958 min
Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks PodcastSmokey Bear Has Never Been HotterThis 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! Subscribe to The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen, and if you’ve...2022-05-1245 min
Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks PodcastOur Favorite Ranger-led Tours#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...2022-05-0554 min
Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks PodcastMailbag: Redwood National and State Parks, 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 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 o...2022-04-2857 min
Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks PodcastMailbag: Pinnacles National Park, and much more!#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! ...2022-04-2159 min
Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks PodcastBlack Canyon of the Gunnison National ParkHome 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! 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, ple...2022-04-1455 min
Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks PodcastExploring Capitol Reef National ParkIn 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. 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 Pod...2022-04-0751 min
Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks PodcastMailbag: Where to hike in Saguaro National Park, and much more!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...2022-03-2446 min
Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks PodcastDark Sky ParksWho 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: Yo...2022-03-1736 min
Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks PodcastRocky Mountain National ParkWith 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. Follow us on Instagram at @mattandka...2022-03-1056 min
Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks PodcastExploring Acadia National ParkWe’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 horsebackPlus, beaches, lighthouses, and the infamous popovers at Jordan Pond House. We talk about all this and much, much more....2022-03-0346 min
Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks PodcastMailbag!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! Subscribe to The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast on Apple Pod...2022-02-2441 min
Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks PodcastOur Twelve Favorite White-Knuckle DrivesJoin 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. Subscribe to The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you like to...2022-02-1750 min
Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks PodcastExploring Yosemite National ParkJoin 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! 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 lea...2022-02-1057 min
Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks PodcastZion National Park – 2.5 Perfect DaysToday 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! 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 Podcast...2022-02-0359 min
Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks PodcastMailbag!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! 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...2022-01-2745 min
Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks PodcastOur Favorite Things to Do In Grand Teton National ParkIn 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. Please subscribe to The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast on Apple Podcasts, S...2022-01-2048 min
Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks PodcastTop Ten Things to Do in Arches National ParkArches 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.2022-01-1347 min
Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks PodcastHow to Plan Your National Park Trips#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 e...2022-01-0655 min
Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks PodcastMailbag!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! 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...2021-12-3047 min
Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks PodcastO Christmas TreeToday 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. Please subscribe to The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you lik...2021-12-2335 min
Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks PodcastHaleakala National Park – Sea to SummitThe 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. Please subscribe to The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen, and i...2021-12-1633 min
Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks PodcastAn Epic Road Trip Through Northern ArizonaIn 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 y...2021-12-0949 min
Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks PodcastOne Perfect Day in Bryce Canyon National ParkBryce 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 webs...2021-12-0239 min
Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks PodcastThanksgiving in the National ParksShake 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 enj...2021-11-2524 min
Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks PodcastTop Ten Things to Do in Hawaii Volcanoes National ParkWhat 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 abo...2021-11-1837 min
Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks PodcastOutdoor Gear and Gifts We LoveGive 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 su...2021-11-111h 00
Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks PodcastThree Perfect Days in New River Gorge National ParkAre 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. 2021-11-0453 min
Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks PodcastThe Ghosts of Mammoth Cave National ParkDid 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 A...2021-10-2850 min
Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks PodcastMailbag!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.· ...2021-10-2147 min
Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks PodcastZion's Epic Subway HikeThe 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...2021-10-1453 min
Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks PodcastAntelope CanyonStarting 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 TourDixie’s Lower Antelope Canyon TourUpper...2021-10-0752 min
Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks PodcastMailbag!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 rating...2021-09-3047 min
Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks PodcastThe Best National Parks to Visit in Each SeasonWe 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 fal...2021-09-2353 min
Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks PodcastGlacier National Park: Part 2 of 2From 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 pa...2021-09-161h 03
Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks PodcastGlacier National Park: Part 1 of 2The 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...2021-09-0957 min
Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks PodcastDining Around the ParksOver 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. 2021-07-1540 min
Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks PodcastTwenty-Five National Parks to Visit in Your LifetimeOur 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...2021-06-1059 min
Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks PodcastBadlands National ParkThe 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 ho...2021-06-0346 min
Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks PodcastMailbag!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’l...2021-05-2753 min
Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks PodcastNorth Cascades National ParkOnly 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 epi...2021-05-2048 min
Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks PodcastCrater Lake National ParkIn 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 option...2021-05-1346 min
Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks PodcastMount Rainier National ParkRising 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 cont...2021-05-0645 min
Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks PodcastClimbing Mount St. HelensWhat’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 erup...2021-04-2949 min
Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks PodcastMailbag!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 ta...2021-04-2246 min
Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks PodcastThe Ten EssentialsWhat’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...2021-04-1556 min
Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks PodcastAbove the Arctic CircleAlaska’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...2021-04-0847 min
Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks PodcastDead Horse Point State ParkOne 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.2021-04-0153 min
Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks PodcastMailbag!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 bes...2021-03-2551 min
Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks PodcastNew Mexico Land of EnchantmentNew 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 ne...2021-03-1852 min
Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks PodcastMonumental National MonumentsWhen 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 prot...2021-03-1152 min
Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks PodcastDenali National ParkWho 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 st...2021-03-0455 min
Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks PodcastMailbag!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 headqu...2021-02-2550 min
Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks PodcastSix Astounding State ParksIn 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...2021-02-1849 min
Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks PodcastHorse Pack Trip into the WildernessSaddle 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...2021-02-1152 min
Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks PodcastHavasu FallsTaking 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...2021-02-0450 min
Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks PodcastOur Favorite Hikes in the National ParksIn 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...2021-01-281h 20
Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks PodcastDeath Valley National ParkDespite 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...2021-01-141h 11
Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks PodcastHere and ThereIn 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 wh...2020-12-3158 min
Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks PodcastNational Park of American SamoaLittle 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...2020-12-171h 11
Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks PodcastDories, Ho!: Floating the Colorado River Through the Grand Canyon Part 2 of 2In 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...2020-12-101h 10
Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks PodcastDories, Ho!: Floating the Colorado River Through the Grand Canyon Part 1 of 2For 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...2020-12-031h 26
Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks PodcastOne Man’s Wilderness: Lake Clark National ParkNo 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 docu...2020-11-191h 11
Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks PodcastBonus Episode: 2020 Holiday Gift GuideThe 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/adchoices2020-11-1259 min
Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks PodcastScenic Drives Through Public LandsBrilliant, 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 duri...2020-11-051h 15
Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks PodcastAdventures in Olympic National ParkFeaturing 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...2020-10-221h 19
Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks PodcastWinter in Yellowstone and Glacier National ParksWhile 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 sc...2020-10-081h 18
Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks PodcastSequoia and Kings Canyon National ParksIt 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...2020-09-241h 10
Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks PodcastThe Wave in Northern ArizonaWe 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 ha...2020-09-101h 11
Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks PodcastHow much it costs to visit all 62 national parksIt 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 na...2020-08-1356 min
Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks PodcastOur Favorite Places in YellowstoneFew 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...2020-07-231h 04
Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks PodcastOutdoorsy in VegasCome 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...2020-07-091h 03
Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks PodcastThe Great American Bison Road TripWho 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...2020-06-251h 19
Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks PodcastMisadventures in Klondike Gold Rush National Historical ParkOver 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 o...2020-06-111h 15
Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks PodcastBeyond Utah’s Mighty Five National ParksThe 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...2020-05-281h 13
Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks PodcastTrailer Tales from California’s Desert ParksTeardrop 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 t...2020-05-141h 11
Hiking Thru Life#38 Adventures with Matt and Karen SmithIn this episode, we talk with Matt and Karen Smith. As they were nearing age 50 in 2010, they decided to take a break from the regular grind of life and set a goal to visit all of America's National Parks. They were able to do this in two years and have had the adventure bug since. Matt and Karen are the authors of the Dear Bob and Sue series of books which chronicles their National Park travels and progresses into other epic adventures. They also have a website where they've shared detailed trip reports and very stunning photography of their trav...2020-05-091h 34
Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks PodcastFive National Park Hidden GemsYou’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...2020-04-3058 min
Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks PodcastKatmai National Park: Bear WatchingOf 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...2020-04-161h 09
Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks PodcastCarlsbad Caverns National ParkJoin 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 dayl...2020-04-021h 11
Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks PodcastZion National Park: Hiking The NarrowsStanding 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...2020-03-1951 min
Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks PodcastRV Adventures in ArizonaHave 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...2020-03-0556 min
Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks PodcastOur Favorite National Park LodgesWhat'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...2020-02-201h 03
Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks PodcastArches National Park: Getting Lost in the Fiery FurnaceWould 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...2020-02-0646 min
Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks PodcastNorth Cascades National Park: Glaciers and Boulders and Scree Oh My!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...2020-02-0449 min
Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks PodcastAdventure in AlaskaIt's here! Episode 1 - the very first episode of our brand new podcast. We can't wait for you to hear it!In this episode:
A tour of the National Parks "visitor center" in our house
The story of how we wrote the Dear Bob and Sue books
A trip to Alaska that almost ended in disaster
Answering questions from readers of our books
Links:
To see photos from our travels, visit our
Instagram account, or
TikTok account
The 2011 Seattle Times article about our near-disaster
Join the conversation on Facebook
Our books
...2020-01-3046 min
Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks PodcastTrailerDear Bob and Sue launched January 30th, 2020. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2020-01-2204 min