How it started
Two essential workers needed a reset.
In 2020, while the world shut down, Garrett and I kept going in — him as a pediatrician, me as a surgeon. We were grateful to help our patients, but the fear of what we might carry home to Hudson and Lillian weighed on us every single day.
By fall of that year, we desperately needed to step away. Not a fancy resort. Not a busy city. We needed trees, quiet, and each other. So we packed up the kids and drove to New England for fall foliage — with a stop at Acadia National Park.
We came home feeling renewed. That trip was perfect in every way — and without knowing it, we’d planted a seed that would grow into something so much bigger.
Why National Parks?
We kept thinking about Acadia.
Other vacations came and went, but we kept coming back to that trip. Garrett had explored the Western U.S. as a kid. I hadn’t traveled much at all. That difference made us want to give Hudson and Lillian what we both wished we’d had — a front-row seat to this incredible country.
That’s when the goal was born: all 63 U.S. National Parks. As a family. Before they grow up.
What You’ll Find Here
Real advice from a family still figuring it out.
We started this adventure without a clue — how far can kids actually hike? What does “no plan for the day” even look like? Where do you find good information about these parks when you’re brand new? We’ve learned a lot the hard way, and we’re sharing all of it.
- Family-friendly park guides
Tame them down or spice them up — built for real families with real kids. - Itineraries & practical tips
Planning tools that make the logistics easier so you can enjoy the adventure. - Honest recommendations
Gear, accommodations, local restaurants — tried, tested, and worth your money.
Off the Trail
When we’re not hiking, we’re cheering.
We grew up in small towns in Kansas and love that our kids get to grow up similarly in Henderson, Kentucky — while still exploring the rest of this beautiful world. When we’re not on a trail, you’ll find us at soccer games, piano lessons, and dance recitals, watching Hudson and Lillian grow up way too fast.
We’re busy professionals who vacation to unplug. We love famous landmarks and hidden gems equally. Our favorite hikes are the ones where you cross paths with just a handful of other people. We enjoy finding unique places to stay and supporting local towns in every park we visit.
We Can’t Wait for You to Join Us
Whether you’re planning your first national park trip or your fifteenth, we’re here to help. Ask questions, share your adventures, and follow along as we wander more — together.
With light and love, Amber 🌿
Where We’ve Been
31 parks down. 32 more to go. Here’s where we’ve explored so far – each one a little different, every single one worth it.
Our Upcoming Adventures
The Next Chapters.
Up next: Haleakalā and Hawaiʻi Volcanoes this spring — parks 32 and 33. Our first time in Hawaii. Two volcanic parks, one incredible island chain. Summer brings Grand Teton and Yellowstone with the whole extended family in tow. Follow along on Instagram @wandermoretogether for the real-time adventure.