I thought I knew a lot about the story of Harriet Tubman, but what I was taught was the tip of the iceberg. I'm so grateful for this park, and a place to go to learn more about her story, struggles, and major impact that she made on this country. The headquarters location is home to a Visitor Center [...]
Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad National Historical Park brings to life the story of Harriet and the hundreds of slaves she helped to find freedom.
Sky Meadows State Park is outside of the Nation's Capital and provides a great escape from the city with Dark Skies, sensory trails, rich history, and an entrance to the Appalachian Trail.
Building out my car I've been dreaming of this trip for a long time. Twenty years, actually. But it was probably in 2018 that I started to pay attention and thinking about what life on the road may look like and feel like. My "mindless scrolling" would be on #vanlife, #subarucamping, and [...]
Val-Kill cottage in Hyde Park, New York—Eleanor Roosevelt's personal refuge and the place she called her own. What to expect and stop at FDR Home next door.
Bryce Canyon is the 17th National Park and home to hoodoos, a stone formation that creates a beautiful experience in this western park.
I've dusted off journals to share more details about parks and attractions that I visited during my year-long sabbatical. In September 2020, I traveled from New York City north to Hyde Park, New York. It was challenging to be in New York City during Covid. When I caved and bought a car, it provided me with the freedom to [...]
Everything you need to know about Holliday Lake State Park in Appomattox, Virginia — trails, beach, camping, and why you should combine it with a visit to Appomattox Court House.
I did not choose Death Valley. Death Valley was where I ended up. I had been in Zion and a rogue cold front was coming through. The advice I got was simple: go west. So I went west, and I arrived, and I was surrounded by gray rocks. There were no sites left in the regular campground, so [...]
First Day Hikes is an initiative of America's State Parks, created to celebrate going outside, getting exercise, and experiencing nature.
Lake Elmo, located in Billings, Montana, is home to great recreation, bird watching, and gathering with family and friends.
Belle Grove Plantation, part of Cedar Creek & Belle Grove National Historical Park, is decking the halls and getting ready to kick off their holiday programs.
Cedar Creek & Belle Grove National Historical Park was the front line of major battles in the Civil War. Learn the story of the region from Backcountry to Breadbasket to Battlefield and Beyond.
The hottest place on Earth, the lowest point in the US, and some of the most stunning scenery you've never imagined. Ranger Abby Wines on Death Valley's history, safety, and how to visit. The Parks Podcast.
I visited Craters of the Moon in June of 2021. At this point, I had been on the road for 5 months. The process of reserving a campsite, getting to locations, setting up, exploring, and taking camp down, had become routine. Or so I thought. This was yet another different experience. And with it came the stress and exhilaration [...]
Craters of the Moon National Monument was created from lava flow over the past 15,000 years. Learn how you can experience the unique activities in the park throughout the year.
Fredericksburg & Spotsylvania National Military Park is located between Washington, DC and Richmond, VA. Learn about four major battles of the civil war and explore the battlefields and historic homes.
Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument is known as the "Green Desert." Learn about the animals, best time of year to plan a visit, and how to navigate a desert hike.
Trail Review: Upland Loop Trail (Big Sky, Montana) The Uplands Loop Trail is a great hike outside the Town Center in Big Sky, MT. While labeled moderate, it's entirely doable for a beginner. While the hill is steep (they all are in Big Sky), pace yourself and you'll handle it like a pro. They have several benches [...]
Shannon Jones, CEO & Founder of KeeKee's Big Adventure, will guide us on planning a trip with your family to the parks.
Shenandoah National Park along the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia — seasonal guide, best hikes for every level, what to pack, and why you should get off Skyline Drive and onto the trails.
In an early episode of The Parks Podcast, Karl Rand from Shenandoah National Park told me that his favorite thing to do at a campfire was make pie iron pizza. I had never used one. So I bought a pie iron, took my nephew Teddy along, and we worked it out over a fire. A pie iron is [...]
516 miles of trails, Skyline Drive's fall foliage, and a creation story most visitors never hear. Ranger Carl Rand on Shenandoah's past, present, and how to make the most of your visit. The Parks Podcast.
The darkest skies in the lower 48, 450 bird species, and 10,000 years of human history. Tom Vandenberg on why Big Bend is unlike any other national park. The Parks Podcast.
Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site is our first stop for The Parks Podcast. Explore the history and impact of nine children to help spark desegregation, and social change movements.
My experience I stopped at Organ Pipe Cactus after a weather detour sent me from Zion down toward southern California. This was early in my trip. I was so new to the routine and still trying to work out what worked for me. Gosh, I still had the tiny tent that required me to squirm around on my [...]
355 days. A packed car. A burnout she couldn't ignore. Missy Rentz introduces The Parks Podcast — and the year that changed everything. Start here.
Hot Springs National Park in Arkansas — Bathhouse Row, the healing springs you can drink from, hiking trails, and why this is the most unusual park in the country. Everything you need to plan your visit.
Little Rock Central High School NHS — the only national park with a functioning school. The bus bench, the window exhibit, and why visiting while school is in session changes everything.
#MyParkStory... ...where you were grateful to just be or experience. Yosemite National Park holds a special place in my heart. When people ask me about it I say “it’s spiritual.” By the time I got to Yosemite I was more comfortable with my process, yet the learning [...]
I walked out to the South Rim, saw the Grand Canyon for the first time in my life, and thought: yeah, that's what it looks like in the pictures. My own reaction surprised me. I had expected to be levelled by it. I have thought about it a lot since, and I do not think the problem was [...]
#MyParkStory... ....where you conquered a personal health, wellness, or physical challenge I pulled out of my driveway in 2021 with great confidence in the year-long trip I had planned. I had prepared for many scenarios of challenging times. I was ready to conquer what was ahead. My [...]
#MyParkStory... ...where you created your own tradition with family, friends, or yourself When I began to explore my interest in parks and nature, I thought experiences needed to be planned, mapped out and structured. More like a big vacation than an afternoon of exploring. Through experience, and [...]
#MyParkStory... ....where you discovered a personal or family history connection While on my year-long camping and hiking trip around the United States, I visited my brother in Montana. He told me he had my grandparent's journals from their travels around the US & Mexico. My grandparents were avid [...]
#MyParkStory... ....where you connect with to improve your mental, physical, and spiritual health, in honor of Park RxDay Most of my healing is done among the trees. Being surrounded by them, particularly tall pines or redwoods, helps me think more clearly and breathe deeper. I realized this [...]
I've decided to go to Big Bend National Park. While that's the main destination, a lot of the fun takes place in the journey. Follow along as I update throughout the planning. 10 weeks out I woke up this morning thinking about Big Bend National Park. This park, [...]
Trail Review: Beaver Lake Trail Beaver Lake Trail was the first trail I explored in Pocahontas State Park. I selected it because I love a loop trail, it didn't seem strenuous, and it was a good distance. This was the day I was going to take my new dog hiking. I held my breath that this 2.5 [...]
Pocahontas State Park in Chesterfield VA — 42 miles of trails, camping, a waterfall, and 30 minutes from Richmond. The ultimate guide to the Mid-Atlantic's most underrated state park.
Yellowstone is my home park when I am out west. I have family close enough that I can pop in for a few hours whenever I want, and that is exactly what I do. In 2021 I used Big Sky, Montana as a base — about an hour from the West Entrance — and I went in over [...]
I bought my first Rumpl blanket mid-way through the trip. I'm a sucker for something lightweight and warm. It only took a few really cold nights before I caved and purchased the blanket. In addition to a great layer for camp sleeping and around the campfire, my blanket gets used a lot in the car, at soccer games, and [...]
Trail Review: Deep Run Park Perimeter Trail I've been to Deep Run Park multiple times over the past 20 years. At first, it was with nieces and nephews and we would frequent the playground. Eventually, some walking paths were added. When I relocated to Richmond a few months ago I made a commitment to get to know more [...]
Oboz Sawtooth hiking boots are sturdy, durable, and comfortable for your long hiking days.
I love these lights! They are easy to use, easy to hang and create a festive atmosphere wherever you use them. When the sun sets, it's really nice to have an entire space lit up versus using a flashlight. I would hang them in my tent and it mad it easy to read after dark. It was also fantastic [...]
Have you ever been sitting in one of those outdoor chairs when a breeze comes through? Your back is so cold, and it's the price you pay to have a lightweight collapsable chair. Helinox has your solution. They have quilted covers for their chairs. It hooks onto the chair and then wraps you in warmth. Since my trip, they [...]
National Parks make for an amazing vacation. But making a plan can be very stressful and confusing. There are so many resources available at your fingertips...but where to start. Plan in advance - The Parks are incredibly popular. If you are able, visit during the off-season (for most parks that is before Memorial [...]
What's the point of a footprint? Keeps all the cold and moisture from the ground outside of your tent. It's amazing how damp the floor of a tent can be, even if it doesn't rain. REI's footprint is created to be the right size for this tent. You want it slightly smaller so that when it does rain, and [...]
Sleep is the most important part of my day. I could write an entire post on my sleep routine and how it is non-negotiable for me. So when it came time for this trip, and hearing horror stories about sleep while camping (or lack thereof), this mattress is top of my list when it comes to your investment. The [...]
I didn't start my trip with a side table. I thought it was silly, completely unnecessary. Why do you need a small table when you have a big picnic table at nearly all campgrounds? It didn't take long for me to change my tune. I wanted something to sit beside me while I was around the campfire. Most of [...]
Paris is as romantic and glamorous as it's portrayed in every movie. The 2000-year-old city mixes modern luxuries with charm-filled history. At times I would pause and realize the people that were walking around these same streets. I'm here for work and have a sunny winter Saturday to explore. In my opinion, when the sun shines in Paris, [...]
I hit the 1 year anniversary of my departure for a year-long sabbatical. ONE YEAR! That's crazy how the time flew by. I took a moment to look through photos, review journals, and make some notes on the adventure. Here's what I have to share... I drove 46,070 miles I hiked 320 miles I visited 39 states I toured [...]
You can find sets of plates, bowls, utensils from many companies. I liked the GSI Cascadian collection (also available in a 4 person set). I finally decided on this set because they were durable, I liked the size, and I loved all of the colors. When it comes to size I was looking for a few [...]
I'm a Yeti fan. I like that it keeps my drinks cold or hot for a very long time. I like that they are durable. I like that they have a variety of sizes and lids to meet my needs. My favorite, a 30oz tumbler, is with me all of the time. It's a great road trip cup. [...]
ENO Doublenest Hammock is one of my favorite outdoor gear pieces. Nothing beats swaying in a tree when you are playing outside.
When people struggle to wrap their heads around camping for a year, I remind them that I'm camping...not roughing it. The rocking feet to my chair is one example of how enjoyable I've made my adventure. I love my Helinox chair. It's cozy and comfortable for evenings by the campfire or those days I decide to read at [...]
If a mosquito is anywhere in a 100-mile radius, it will find me. And when it does, the bite doesn't just itch — it swells into a welt that hurts for days. I spent most of my life trying bands, oils, sprays, and eventually just avoiding being outside after dusk. Nothing worked. I was in Bend, Oregon when [...]
A lot of lighting options are available for camping, hiking, and other outdoor fun. I'm quite fond of the collapsibility and solar components of the Goal Zero Crush Light Lanterns. They come in white and chroma. The white allows for three levels of brightness. The chroma allows you to cycle through 8 color modes. You can [...]
If you are asking yourself "why does a solo traveler need additional space when they have a 4-man tent?", I did too. After reading reviews most people suggested I invest in the Kingdom Mud Room. Having lived in this space for nearly a year, I get it. The Mud Room is the additional vestibule area off of the [...]
Helinox Savanna Chair is my go to chair for the campsite or soccer fields.
A camp stove makes mealtime much easier. I went with the Eureka Ignite 2-Burner stove. I like that it's easy to light, very lightweight, and has the 2-burner option. I didn't use both very often, but it was nice to know I could. The camp stove industry seems to change constantly. I highly recommend talking to someone at [...]
I have been to Mount Rushmore about half a dozen times. It is genuinely incredible to stand in front of. It is also very busy, and there is a lot going on — you arrive, you come through the gate, there are shops, and then there is a long walkway lined with flags leading you toward the mountain. [...]
I bought an Ice Mule while visiting the REI Flagship store in Seattle. I had purchased several smaller coolers throughout the trip thinking it would be nice to have an easy cooler to have on the front seat for lunch, store drinks for travel days, and store vegetables that didn't need refrigerated but I didn't want them cooking in [...]
Determining food storage was really challenging for me. I watched a million videos. Some people went with coolers, others with plug-in refrigeration coolers. The price tag of the plug-in coolers was too shocking for me. I knew I needed to invest in something that would keep the cooler cold for multiple days. After reading countless reviews and talking to [...]
I started the trip with a classic dome tent. It was only a few weeks before I decided I wanted a tent with more space. Most importantly, one I could stand up in. I opted for REI's Kingdom 4. My thoughts: Size - The footprint has fit into every campsite. The height allows me to stand [...]
I wasn't sure if I could do this trail. I even hiked two shorter trails to warm up...get the nerve...to try Angel's Landing. I've heard so much about it, but it was cold, snow was predicted, and my ego was getting the best of me. After a 2-mile pep-talk I took a left on the trail towards Angel's Landing. [...]
Do you ever have those moments where the world stops and you can just soak in the beauty of the moment? That's what this hike was for me. I didn't do much planning for this trip. I was on my way from Boulder, CO to Billings, MT, and had some time to kill. I'd heard about the [...]
A giant family of dinosaur sculptures built from salvaged lumber in Thetford, Vermont. Free, unexpected, and one of the best roadside stops in New England.
Finding a campground in this part of the country, in mid-September, that wasn't already winterized (thus had water) was challenging. But thankfully I came across New England Outdoor Center (NEOC). Thankfully the woman who booked my spot warned me that GPS directions wouldn't likely work (though it did on WAZE). You leave Millinocket and head towards Baxter State Park. [...]
I love this trail! You have two parking options - one off of the main road and the other at the marina. The marina option has more spaces. The trail is along a service road. It's wide and has a slight incline, but not at all strenuous. I parked at the Marina and took the trail along [...]
Today the National Parks Service turns 105. Thanks to Woodrow Wilson, on this date in 1916 the Parks were born. When I read that Instagram post I wanted to be a part of the celebration and go enjoy a National Park. I happen to be 45 minutes from Yellowstone, so I hopped in the car and made my way. [...]
Bryce Canyon was never going to be the visit. It was a stop. I was on my way to a much bigger trip — the Grand Canyon and Zion — and Bryce got a few hours in the middle of it, in early March. I knew going in that not much would be open. It was still the [...]
Lava Lake was my second solo winter hike. I'd never been on the trail before and spent a lot of time preparing for this trip. I wanted to know exactly where to park, where backup parking would be, where the bathroom was located, what the trail was like. I was happy to have been so informed. It eased [...]
When I was in college I had a dream to take a year and travel the United States. Friends were contemplating exchange programs in Europe. I wanted to see America. At the time I dismissed the idea in exchange for getting a job. I started my career with gusto, quickly adopting workaholic ways. When I would approach burnout, the [...]
Devils Tower National Monument was one of the first stops of my trip. On a cold winter day, during Covid, I pulled into the nearly empty parking lot. The Visitor Center was closed, but they left the stamp out for my National Park Passport. The trail is a walking path around the Tower. It takes you around the [...]
I took the detour off I-90 with my fingers crossed that it would even be open. This was January 2021. You could not assume anything was open, and I had no idea what I was going to be up against on access. I lucked out. I was driving west for the first time, on my way to Montana, [...]
