Shows
Two Chicks with Hiking SticksCarlsbad Caverns National Park: Ultimate Guide to Caves, Bats & Underground AdventuresIn this episode, we explore Carlsbad Caverns National Park: One of America’s most stunning underground destinations. Discover the history of the caverns, fascinating geology, massive cave chambers like the Big Room, and the famous bat flights that draw visitors each summer evening. Whether you're planning a visit or just curious about this natural wonder, join us for expert tips, fun facts, and everything you need to know about exploring Carlsbad Caverns National Park. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2025-07-2428 min
Two Chicks with Hiking SticksBig Thicket National PreserveExplore Big Thicket National Preserve, known as “America’s biological crossroads.” Located in Southeast Texas, this unique park protects nine distinct ecosystems—pine forests, cypress swamps, bogs, and more—all packed with diverse wildlife like alligators, carnivorous plants, and rare birds.With over 40 miles of hiking trails, scenic paddling routes, and rich cultural history from Indigenous tribes to early settlers, Big Thicket offers adventure and discovery at every turn. Join us as we uncover the wild beauty and hidden stories of this national treasure. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2025-07-1723 min
Two Chicks with Hiking SticksTrail Mix 2In this episode, we’re answering your questions! First up: what’s the difference between a hike and a walk? We break down the nuances—terrain, distance, mindset—and why sometimes the line is blurrier than you'd think. Next, we share our favorite small but mighty parks; hidden gems that pack a punch. And finally, the big one: can you take things like shells or rocks from parks? We get into the rules (spoiler: mostly no). Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2025-07-1030 min
Two Chicks with Hiking SticksHot Springs National ParkStep into the steamy, storied waters of Hot Springs National Park, one of the most unique and historic places in the National Park Service. Nicknamed “America’s First Resort,” this Arkansas gem welcomes over 2.4 million visitors each year to explore its 5,550 acres, 26 miles of trails, and the iconic Bathhouse Row that includes eight turn-of-the-century buildings. The area has been cherished by Native Americans for over 10,000 years, and today, visitors still come to soak in its healing 143°F waters—though only indoors. Take a stroll along the Grand Promenade, enjoy a scenic drive (just know some...2025-07-0324 min
Two Chicks with Hiking SticksDevils Tower National MonumentToday we have quite the show to share with all of you! Welcome to America's first National Monument, Devils Tower, which was designated in 1906 by President Theodore Roosevelt under the Antiquities Act. Rising 867 feet above the Wyoming landscape, this stunning geologic feature is made of phonolite porphyry (igneous rock) and showcases some of the most dramatic columnar jointing on earth. Science explains its formation through ancient magma and ongoing erosion but for over two dozen Native American tribes, is it more commonly known as Bear Lodge and it holds deep spiritual significance. Visitors can explore the...2025-06-2624 min
Two Chicks with Hiking SticksBalmorhea State Park and Chihuahuan Desert Nature CenterWelcome to West Texas, where the desert springs to life right in front of you. Balmorhea State Park, built in 1936 by the Civilian Conservation Corps, is home to one of the world’s largest spring-fed swimming pools. Fed by 15 million gallons of water daily from the San Solomon Springs, this desert oasis stays a perfect 72 to 76 degrees year-round. With depths up to 25 feet and covering 1.3 acres, it's a swimmer's dream. Beyond the pool, the CCC also built retro-chic San Solomon Springs Courts motel. Nearby, the San Solomon and Hubbs Cienegas were created to restore critical habitat lo...2025-06-1931 min
Two Chicks with Hiking SticksTrail MixToday, join us as we dive into our comments, inbox and messages to answer your questions about pets on trails, forest bathing and more! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2025-06-1219 min
Two Chicks with Hiking SticksMinidoka National Historic SiteToday, we’re reflecting on a powerful chapter in American history at Minidoka National Historic Site, located in southern Idaho. This site preserves the memory of one of ten incarceration camps where over 13,000 Japanese Americans were unjustly imprisoned during World War II following Executive Order 9066. From 1942 to 1945, families—many U.S. citizens—were forcibly removed from their homes and held at Minidoka under harsh and often dehumanizing conditions. Despite these challenges, the incarcerees built a resilient community, with schools, farms, and even a newspaper. Minidoka is now a place of remembrance and education, known for its preserved structures, honor roll o...2025-06-0533 min
Two Chicks with Hiking SticksPadre Island National SeashoreThis episode dives into the rich and layered history of Padre Island, the longest undeveloped barrier island in the world. From its early indigenous inhabitants, the Karankawa, through colonial claims by Spain, Mexico, the Republic of Texas, and finally the U.S., the island has a complex past. Listeners learn about Padre Nicolas Ballí, the island's namesake, and how the land served as a naval bombing range during WWII.Today, Padre Island National Seashore is a haven for wildlife and nature lovers, boasting over 400 plant species and nearly half of all bird species in North America. I...2025-05-2933 min
Two Chicks with Hiking SticksFort Davis National Historic Site and Davis Mountains State ParkFrom frontier forts to mountain trails, West Texas has it all. Discover the rich history of Fort Davis National Historic Site and the breathtaking beauty of Davis Mountains State Park in our latest blog post. Whether you're a history buff, a hiker, or just love Texas road trips, this one’s for you!👉 Read more at Two Chicks with Hiking Sticks website. #FortDavis #DavisMountains #TexasTravel #HistoryMeetsNature #HikingTexas Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2025-05-2231 min
Two Chicks with Hiking SticksRocky Mountain National ParkIn this episode, we take you on a relaxing journey through some of the park’s easy hikes. Discover trails like Bear Lake, Sprague Lake, and Alberta Falls—perfect for beginners or those looking to enjoy the scenery without the strain. Along the way, we talk wildlife spotting tips, picnic-perfect spots, and where to catch the most stunning mountain views with minimal effort. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned nature lover, this episode offers a peaceful path into the heart of the Rockies. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2025-05-1526 min
Two Chicks with Hiking SticksCanyon De Chelly National MonumentLong before Canyon de Chelly was officially designated in 1931, its walls already echoed with centuries of life and resilience. The Ancient Puebloans first carved out a life there, followed by the Hopi. By the mid-1600s, the Navajo—who call themselves the Diné—had made the canyon their home, building a vibrant, self-sustaining community amid the red rock cliffs. But the peace would not last. In the late 1700s, amidst conflict from rival tribes and Spanish colonists, a devastating blow dealt by the Col. Kit Carson of the U.S. Army forced the Navajo people from their homeland. Even through this...2025-05-0826 min
Two Chicks with Hiking SticksEl Camino de San Antonio MissionsWelcome to today’s episode, where we journey into the heart of one of the world’s most storied pilgrimages—The Camino de Santiago, also known as The Way of St. James. For centuries, pilgrims have walked from various points across England and Europe, all making their way to a single sacred destination: the Church of St. James in Santiago de Compostela, Spain.But did you know that the Camino now extends beyond Europe? In 2018, a remarkable milestone was reached when the Camino de San Antonio Missions in Texas became the first formally recognized Camino route outsid...2025-05-0528 min
Two Chicks with Hiking SticksSan Antonio Missions and World Heritage CenterIn this episode, we explore the rich heritage of the San Antonio Missions—Texas’s first UNESCO World Heritage site, designated on July 5, 2015. Nestled within the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park, these historic missions are more than stone and mortar; they are living stories of cultural fusion, resilience, and transformation. Learn how Spanish missionaries and Indigenous peoples forged complex relationships that still echo through the American Southwest today. Through tours, exhibits, and community events, the park keeps these legacies alive, inviting us all to reflect on our shared past and how it shapes our collective future. Join us as we u...2025-05-0530 min
Two Chicks with Hiking SticksMeet the Two Chicks with Hiking SticksWelcome to Two Chicks with Hiking Sticks — the trail talk you didn’t know you needed. Join us, two adventure-loving chicks with an appreciation of nature, culture, history, and hiking. Don't be intimidated! We love the hikes but we also want to share the history and culture behind some of our favorite places. We'd love for you, especially if you're a little bit older and are ready to try something a little different, to join us as we travel to places where culture, history, and landscape meet. We're here to share laughs, stories, and a little dirt from the trail. We w...2025-05-0412 min