Exploring the National Parks · Wednesday, July 8, 2026
Ash, a former park ranger and founder of Dirt on My Shoes, asserts that finding solitude in national parks is achievable, even during peak summer months. She counters the common belief that solitude requires visiting during off-peak seasons or hiking extreme distances. Her advice is based on practical experience and suggests that strategic planning, not just early mornings, can help visitors avoid crowds.
“So the number one thing that people fight me about is that you can still find solitude in the national parks.”
“We travel to the national parks during the summer. That is our window.”
“You don't have to get up like, listen, I'm a mom. I know how painful it can be to wake your kids up when they're soundly in their beds and force them to get out so you can go do things.”