If you’ve ever dreamed of visiting all 63 U.S. National Parks but don’t know where to start or how to fit it in your schedule, this podcast episode with Liz Bailey will be your ultimate guide. Liz, along with her husband, managed to visit every U.S. National Park and all 50 states in just three years, while still maintaining their full-time jobs.
Liz’s journey began with her first National Park visit in 2020, at Rocky Mountain National Park. The awe-inspiring landscapes and sense of escape this park provided were enough to spark a passion in her, leading her to visit all 63 parks within three years. She took the time to research each park extensively before her visit, learning about their unique features, history, and even the native lands they were built upon.
The diversity of the U.S. National Parks is truly remarkable. From the colorful badlands of Theodore Roosevelt National Park in North Dakota, to the vast caves of Wind Cave in South Dakota, each park offers a unique and captivating experience. Among her favorites is Zion National Park in Utah, renowned for its huge red rocks, unique wildlife, and the awe-inspiring Angels Landing hike.
But it’s not just about the stunning landscapes. Liz emphasizes the often overlooked roles of park rangers, who tirelessly work to maintain the parks and educate visitors. She also shares some fascinating wildlife encounters, underscoring the importance of protecting the land and its inhabitants. From encounters with bears to bighorn sheep, these stories serve as a vivid reminder of the diverse life that calls these parks home.
Visiting all 63 U.S. National Parks is no easy feat, and certainly not something one can accomplish over a weekend. Some parks, like the National Park of American Samoa and the Virgin Islands’ St. John, are located in remote territories, requiring careful planning and a good chunk of time to visit. Despite these challenges, Liz’s spirit of exploration remained unshaken.
As we discuss Liz’s upcoming goal of visiting 40 countries by 40, it’s clear that her spirit of exploration is infectious. Whether you’re drawn to the allure of National Parks, or you simply wish to explore the world in your own way, Liz’s story is a treasure trove of inspiration and practical tips. 
So, whether you’re an avid hiker, a weekend explorer, or someone who simply appreciates the beauty of nature, this episode is sure to inspire. Tune in, take notes, and get ready to embark on your own adventure across the U.S. National Parks. After all, as Liz Bailey proves, the world is full of wonders just waiting to be explored if we dare to step out of our comfort zones.
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