Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks Podcast
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In Dear Bob and Sue, authors Matt and Karen Smith share stories of their travels to all of the U.S. National Park as well as other spectacular public lands. From adventures gone awry to memorable moments and Q&As from readers, get to know the couple behind the books and get inspired to go on some adventures of your own.
Recent Episodes
179
Nov. 10, 2026
#179: Chiricahua National Park
We have a brand-new national park! Chiricahua, located in southeastern Arizona, recently became our country's 64th national park. Known as the "Wonderland of Rocks," this remarkable landscape is filled with towering rock pinnacles, balanced boulders, and hidden canyons. We've visited twice, and we're excited to share why this little-known park deserves a spot on your travel list. In this episode, we talk about our experiences exploring Chiricahua, including our favorite hikes, scenic overlooks,
178
Oct. 27, 2026
#178: Ghost Stories From The National Parks
On our recent road trip to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, we explored the Elkmont Ghost Town and learned about the heyday and eventual decline of this historic district. We also picked up a ghost story set in the surrounding mountains long before the area became a national park. In this episode, we share that spooky tale along with several other ghost stories inspired by our national parks. From a mysterious barefoot woman wandering the Appalachian woods to unexplained happenings experien
177
Aug. 20, 2026
#177: A Fall Road Trip Through New Mexico
Fall is the ideal time of the year to visit New Mexico as the summer heat begins to cool down and the colors become more vibrant in the filtered autumn light. In this episode, we discuss our favorite things to do and see in the Land of Enchantment. Starting in the north and working our way south, we share some of our experiences exploring the unique landscape and cultural history of New Mexico. Whether you are planning a road trip through the state or looking for activities to add to an upcomi
176
June 25, 2026
#176: The Zion Narrows Revisited
The Narrows in Zion National Park is one of the most iconic hikes in the American West. We recently returned to the park to hike the Narrows for the third time, and it’s been a while since we last talked about it on this podcast. Our first Narrows episode was episode 6, six years ago, so we figured it was time for an update. If you would like information about other activities in the park, check out the Substack article we published recently: Our 10 Favorite Things to Do in Zion National Park
175
April 23, 2026
#175: Great Pizza Places Near National Parks
#175: Great Pizza Places Near National Parks After over fifteen years of traveling to the U.S. national parks and other public lands, we’ve learned there are a few key pieces of information you need to make a road trip a success. And at the top of the list is... knowing where to find a great pizza. We can’t claim to know where all of the best pizza restaurants are near our incredible national parks, but we’ve started a pretty good list. In this episode, we talk about our favorites; the ones w
174
March 19, 2026
#174: 10 National Monuments That Feel Like National Parks
Across our U.S. public lands are more than 130 national monuments, each protecting a unique natural or cultural treasure. In this episode, we’re diving into ten that feel a lot like visiting a national park, but without the crowds. We share a mix of places we’ve visited over the years, and each one surprised us with just how much they have in terms of scenery, hiking, and overall experience. From towering rock formations and remote desert canyons to cultural sites with deep historical meaning,
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