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August 13, 2025 49 mins

In this episode of Exploring the National Parks, we're diving into a topic near and dear to many parents' hearts: finding the perfect national park for your teenagers! 

We're sharing our top picks and strategies for turning those eye-rolls into awe-some moments and  Instagram-worthy adventures on epic trails. If you're looking to spark a love for the outdoors in your teens, this episode is packed with our insights and recommendations!

Join us as we discuss…

  • Why teens can actually be the perfect national park partners
  • What truly makes a national park "teen-approved" like epic adventures and Instagrammable moments
  • Why we consider parks like Zion, Mammoth Cave, and Grand Canyon to be prime destinations for an unforgettable teen adventure
  • How to pick the national park that best suits your teenager's personality and interests
  • The experiences Denali and North Cascades offer, from wildlife spotting to landscapes that will grab their attention
  • Our tips for "warming up" teenagers to outdoor recreation, even if they're hesitant at first
  • Why this list offers fresh ideas beyond the usual suspects and focuses on parks that will resonate with teenagers

We hope this episode gives you plenty of ideas for your next national park adventure with your teens! Remember, the goal is to create memorable experiences that foster a love for the outdoors. 

Today’s Task: If you've taken your teenagers to a park they've raved about, we'd love to hear about it! Head over to the Dirt In My Shoes Facebook or Instagram pages and chime in on our post.

For a full summary of this episode, links to things we mentioned, and free resources and deals to get your trip-planning started, check out the full show notes.

Getting ready for a trip to Zion, Denali, or another national park? Check out our free resources, including more podcast episodes, a master reservation list, a national park checklist, and a trip packing list to keep your trip planning stress-free!

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