We’re Matt and Karen Smith, and for more than 15 years we’ve been exploring all 63 U.S. national parks and other public lands. What began as a simple way to document our own travels has grown into a collection of recommendations, tips, stories, and resources that help people discover meaningful outdoor experiences.

Our content is rooted in the landscapes we know best, the deserts, mountains, forests, and coastlines of the Western U.S. But every so often, we explore inspiring places elsewhere in the U.S. and Canada.

Over the years we’ve hiked trails, driven scenic byways, stayed in historic lodges, and visited hundreds of iconic and out-of-the-way locations. Through our journeys, we learned what makes a trip go smoothly, what pitfalls to avoid, and which experiences stand out long after the drive home. We share those insights here so you can spend less time wondering what to do and more time enjoying the places you’ve worked hard to reach.

Our goal isn’t to tell you exactly how to plan your trip. Instead, we give you practical advice, firsthand observations, and honest recommendations so you can choose the experiences that fit your interests and abilities. Whether you’re a long-time national park traveler or just starting to explore the outdoors, we’re glad you’re here, and we hope our stories and guides help you make the most of your next adventure.