This episode takes us to Bryce Canyon National Park in Southern Utah, home to the world’s largest concentration of hoodoos—towering, otherworldly rock formations sculpted by millions of years of erosion. Bryce Canyon’s breathtaking amphitheaters, vivid red and orange cliffs, and pristine dark skies make it a treasure of the National Park system.

We’re joined by Jim Ireland, the park’s superintendent since 2021. With nearly 30 years of experience in the National Park Service, Jim’s journey began with a youth internship at Petrified Forest National Park during high school and has taken him to parks across the country, including Natural Bridges, Kenai Fjords, and Timpanogos Cave. A Bevinetto Fellow and former state coordinator for Utah’s 13 national parks, Jim brings a wealth of knowledge and passion for public lands to his current role.

In this episode, Jim reflects on his career, from his early days as a GS-1 federal employee to moving around the country to work at different parks. He shares insights into Bryce Canyon’s unique geology, the park’s world-class stargazing programs, and its growing offerings, like expanding the biking trail and adding cross-country skiing. We also explore his personal side, including building a camper van with his son, his favorite hikes, and his love for old-fashioned sanded lemon drops—a must-have desert hiking snack.

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Who Runs This Park is produced by Maddie Pellman with music by Danielle Bees.