It is officially winter, and I trust that’s not going to stop you from exploring our beautiful national parks. This is actually the best time in my opinion to escape the winter weather where you live and enjoy some parks which are the best to visit right now. Here are my suggestions for the parks you should see December through March.
On The Great Escape we talk about adventure, growth, and occasionally doing things that make people say, "You did WHAT?" So today's episode is all about something that sounds intense… because it IS. We're talking about Misogi Challenges — where they came from, why they're powerful, and how choosing just ONE brutally hard thing can completely change the trajectory of your year… and honestly, your life.If you've ever felt stuck, bored, complacent, or like you're capable of more but don't quite know how to access it — buckle up, friends. This one might light a fire under you. Because here's the thing: You're sitting on SO much potential. And most of us? We're massively under-indexing in what we're capable of doing. We've convinced ourselves we're "not that person" or "not ready yet" or "maybe someday."And yet what if someday could be now? Will it be one day or will today be day one? Let’s pick ONE day — one defining challenge — that proves to yourself just how capable you really are. That's what we're diving into today. Let's go.
We're counting down my top 5 cities in the world to celebrate New Year's Eve. These aren't just places with fireworks — though trust me, the fireworks are EPIC. These are destinations where the entire city comes alive, where millions of people gather with one shared mission: to ring in the new year in the most unforgettable way possible.
If you’re someone who hears sleigh bells the moment Halloween ends, this one’s for you. We’re packing our imaginary passports, grabbing a mug of something mulled, and skipping our way through some of the most magical Christmas markets around the world — and yes, even a few right here in the U.S. that will scratch that European-Christmas itch without requiring a 9-hour flight or pretending you understand German.
It’s that time of year again when your family’s asking you for your holiday wish list and you can’t remember any of the things you said “ooh I should ask for this for Christmas” months ago. Or maybe you’re good yet you’re having trouble coming up with the perfect gift for your friend. Here are my top 10 gift suggestions for travelers this holiday season.
This time we’re headed to the majestic Rocky Mountain state of Wyoming to explore Grand Teton National Park. Let’s dive into one of America’s most scenic parks with peaks, lakes, wildlife—and yes, trails that’ll make you ache in places you forgot you had.
We’re back with another round of National Park Fun Facts. If you liked Parts 1 and 2, you’re in for a treat today because we’ve got six more amazing parks, wild records, and jaw-dropping details that will have you reaching for your hiking boots—or at least your Google map. So strap in, because we’re about to nerd out about:- Death Valley- Channel Islands- Carlsbad Caverns- Acadia- Redwoods- Glacier
Today, we’re talking about what to pack for a day hike — because nothing ruins a beautiful overlook faster than realizing you forgot water, snacks, or, you know… common sense.Whether you’re heading out on a quick 2-mile out-and-back, a strenuous loop in the wilderness, or just trying to survive the heat in Death Valley, this episode will help you make sure you’ve got everything you need without overpacking like you’re moving into the woods permanently.We focus on navigation, the right pack, hydration, food, clothing, first aid, and emergency supplies!
Here is the 2nd half of my interview with my friend Brad Felker on his epic trip to India earlier this year. In ep 43 he talked about planning the trip and the first half in Delhi. Now he tells us about the experiences in Dharamshala and McLeod Ganj.If you’ve ever dreamed of traveling to India—or just want the inside scoop from someone who’s been—you won’t want to miss this conversation.
✈️ Don’t forget to subscribe for more adventures, national park deep-dives, and travel stories that inspire you to pack your bags.#IndiaTravel #TravelPodcast #DelhiIndia #TheGreatEscape
We’re heading west to one of my favorite playgrounds in the United States — Utah’s Mighty 5 National Parks: Zion, Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, Arches, and Canyonlands. Each one is completely different, totally unforgettable, and together they form one of the greatest road trips in America. So buckle up, because we’re going to explore them one by one — the history, the highlights, and some tips to make the most of your visit.
🌏 Ready to explore India? In this episode of The Great Escape, I sit down with my friend Brad Felker to talk all about his epic trip to India earlier this year. We cover the nitty-gritty of planning the trip, navigating transportation, what foods you have to try, and Brad’s experiences in Delhi. Spoiler: it’s busy, it’s bold, and it’s unforgettable.
If you’ve ever dreamed of traveling to India—or just want the inside scoop from someone who’s been—you won’t want to miss this conversation. Stay tuned for Part 2, where Brad shares about another region of India!
✈️ Don’t forget to subscribe for more adventures, national park deep-dives, and travel stories that inspire you to pack your bags.
#IndiaTravel #TravelPodcast #DelhiIndia #TheGreatEscape
Today we’re heading deep into the heart of Texas — San Antonio. This city has it all — history, food, culture, and a river that basically exists for people-watching and margarita-sipping. If you’ve only got a few days here, I’ll help you make the most of it. I’ve got the perfect mix of classic sights, quirky finds, and plenty of food and drink recommendations, because — let’s be real — we don’t travel on an empty stomach around here.
Think you’re brave enough for Angel’s Landing? 🏞️ In this episode, I’m taking you to the heart of Zion National Park to hike one of the most famous — and most intimidating — trails in the U.S. We’ll talk about:
✨ What it’s really like to climb the steep switchbacks and chain section (spoiler: my palms were sweating).✨ How the permit lottery system works and what you need to know before you go.✨ Why this hike is equal parts terrifying and unforgettable — and why it deserves a spot on your bucket list.
Whether you’re planning your own Zion adventure or just want to live vicariously through my shaky knees, you won’t want to miss this one.
Follow along on Instagram @the.great.escape.podcast for photos from the trail and more adventure inspo!
Think you know your U.S. National Parks? 🌲 Think again. In this episode of The Great Escape Podcast, I’m sharing 6 jaw-dropping, funny, and “wait…WHAT?!” facts about parks you thought you knew.From Yosemite’s magical moonbows 🌙🌈 to Alaska’s Wrangell–St. Elias being literally bigger than Switzerland 🏔️ (because of course Alaska went extra), to Hawaii’s Mauna Loa casually being the biggest mountain on Earth 🌋—this episode will make you laugh, blow your mind, and probably add a few new destinations to your bucket list.✨ What you’ll learn in this episode:- Why Mesa Verde is basically a 700-year-old cliffside apartment complex 🏠- How to catch a midnight rainbow in Yosemite 🌙- Why Mauna Loa makes Everest look tiny 🌋- The only U.S. national park south of the equator 🌴- Which park could eat Switzerland for breakfast 🏔️- And the park that got demoted from “National” to “State” (ouch) 🏝️👉 Subscribe for more travel inspo, national park stories, and funny adventure tips every week! 📸 Follow me on Instagram: @the.great.escape.podcast#NationalParks #TravelPodcast #AdventureTravel #TheGreatEscapePodcast #TravelTips #BucketListTravel #ExploreMore
🌍✨ Ready to go underground? In this episode of The Great Escape, I’m taking you deep into Carlsbad Caverns National Park in New Mexico — one of the most jaw-dropping cave systems in the world. From massive underground rooms that could fit a Taylor Swift concert to the legendary bat flight that first caught a cowboy’s eye in the 1900s, this adventure is full of history, humor, and a little sass.
👉 What you’ll hear in this episode:
The wild story of 16-year-old Jim White, who first explored the caverns (with just a ladder + lantern 😳)
Why the Big Room feels like stepping onto another planet
Fun facts about bats, stalactites, and stalagmites you’ll want to drop into your next trivia night
My own 2023 visit with my adventure pup, Molly 🐶 (even though dogs aren’t allowed inside the caves!)
🎧 If you love national parks, epic adventures, and stories that make you laugh while you learn, you’ll want to hit that subscribe button and stick around.
👇 Let’s connect:Instagram: @the.great.escape.podcast
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#CarlsbadCaverns #NationalParks #AdventurePodcast #TravelStories #UndergroundAdventure #CaveExploring #TravelTips #AdventureTravel #ExploreNewMexico #BucketListAdventures
Today we're boarding a cruise ship! I know what you’re thinking: buffets and bingo? No, friend...buckle up, because we’re talking glacier views, surprise wildlife sightings, and local lore.
I’ve got a special guest joining me who just got back from an Alaskan cruise, and she’s bringing the real talk—what shocked her and what she’ll never forget. Let’s dive in!
Looking for the best hikes in Acadia National Park? In this episode of The Great Escape, I’m sharing my top 3 favorite adventurous hikes in the park—yes, the ones with metal rungs, ladders, and views that’ll make your jaw drop. If you’re up for a little thrill and don’t mind some steep climbs, these are for you.
But don’t worry—if you’re more into peaceful trails and ocean views, I’ve also included two chill hikes at the end that are still absolutely worth your time. Whether it’s your first visit to Acadia or you’re planning a return trip, this episode has something for every kind of hiker.
Today we’re diving into camping in national parks—because nothing screams "I love nature" like voluntarily sleeping on the ground next to raccoons who have absolutely no respect for personal space. Whether you're a tent-slinging rookie or an RV queen with solar panels and a kitchen island, this episode is your ultimate guide to camping in national parks—what to know, what to bring, and what not to do unless you want your trip to end in tears… or fines
Climbing Mount Whitney is not for the faint of heart - it is the tallest mountain in the lower 48 at 14,505ft. The 21.2 mile hike took me 17 long hours. Here is my mile-by-mile recap of the journey and my tips and tricks for tackling it yourself.
Here are the fun things to do and see in our country's 2nd oldest national park, Sequoia. Top sites include General Sherman, Mount Whitney, and all the big trees and beautiful trails!